Gemological Information for Calcite
| Color: | Transparent, Colorless and most other colors |
| Crystal Structure: | Hexagonal (trigonal) |
| Refractive Index: | 1.486 to 1.658 |
| Durability: | Single Crystal=Poor Aggregates=Fair to Good |
| Hardness: | 3 |
| Family: | |
| Similar Stones: | Aragonite, Chalcedony, Coral, Alabaster |
| Treatments: | Dyeing, Impregnation with Wax and Plastic, Irradiation |
| Country of Origin: | Mexico, U.S. |
Calcite Care
| Ultrasonic Cleaning: | Never |
| Steam Cleaning: | Never |
| Warm Soapy Water: | Usually Safe |
| Chemical Attack: | Effervesces to Certain Acids |
| Light Sensitivity: | Natural Colors Stable |
| Heat Sensitivity: | Decrepitates at Higher Temps |
Sources
- Gem Reference Guide, Los Angeles: Gemological Institute of America, 1988. Pp. 41-43.
- Schumann, Walter. Gemstones of the World, New York: Sterling Publishing, Co., 1977. Pp. 208.