Calcite

Calcite is a white or colorless mineral that is found in a variety of geological settings. It is the most common form of calcium carbonate and is an important component of limestone and marble. Calcite has a Mohs hardness of 3 and a specific gravity of 2.71. It is transparent to translucent and has a vitreous luster. The calcite crystal structure is trigonometrical and the crystals can be found in a variety of shapes, including rhododendrons, scandalmonger, and needles.

Calcite is a very common mineral, a carbonate of calcium, found in many places all over the world. It is a common constituent of sedimentary rocks that have been formed by the accumulation and cementation of shells, corals, and the like, and it is a common constituent of certain kinds of rocks, such as marble and limestone, which have been formed by the replacement of other carbonate rocks. In the form of transparent crystals, calcite is used to make artificial gems and in the form of marble, it is a popular ornamental stone.