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Calcite is a mineral of the trigonal crystal system. It is fragile with a Mohs hardness of 3 and often has a waxy, pearly, or resinous type of lustre. Calcite can also be chalky and dull (not shiny). It comes in a variety of colors such as white, clear, orange, green, yellow, blue, pink, etc. and is very common, found all over the world. Calcite may also be distinctive with a rhombohedral cleavage. One of the methods of testing for Calcite is the acid test. Calcite will have a fizzing action when acids are applied. Drop a couple drops of vinegar on Calcite and look for any fizzing action. HCL is a stronger acid and will show a much greater reaction. Click here to learn how to perform the acid test. It's also important to note that a lot of the Calcite on the market is acid-washed or acid-dipped. Calcite may be placed in an acid solution to smooth out rough edges and enhance color a bit.
It is said that some of the metaphysical properties of Calcite may include:
Optical Calcite, also called Icleand Spar, is a clear Calcite that has a double-refraction (as pictured above). Technically, Iceland Spar is from Iceland but many people refer to Optical Calcite from other locations as Iceland Spar as well. Another aspect of Optical Calcite/Iceland Spar is it's amazing rhombohedral cleavage as shown below. Historically speaking, it is said that the Vikings used this mineral to help with navigation. It's a pretty cool mineral! |
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