Calcite Minerals

Calcite is a very common rock-forming mineral. It comes in a variety of shapes and colors. It is also an important part of many rocks. Calcite is an important component of limestone and marble. Calcite is known for its variety of crystals and beautiful expansion. Some geologists consider it a "ubiquitous mineral." This calcite is formed by the accumulation of calcium-containing water in caves or between limestone. Calcite is a major component of stalactites and stalagmites. It is also responsible for the "cave pearls" that are found in some caves.

Calcite is a carbonate mineral and the most stable polymorph of calcium carbonate. The Mohs scale of mineral hardness, based on scratch hardness comparison, defines value 3 as "calcite". Other polymorphs of calcium carbonate are the minerals aragonite and vaterite. Aragonite will change to calcite over timescales of days or less at temperatures exceeding 300 °C, and vaterite is even less stable. Calcite is thermodynamically stable only at temperatures below 550 °C. Above this temperature, it decomposes into calcium oxide and carbon dioxide, with release of carbon dioxide.

All members of the calcite group crystallize in a triangular arrangement. Although calcite can produce beautiful crystals, it is usually very large. Calcite specimens may be present in metamorphic deposits, igneous rocks, and hydroelectric veins. It is used in agricultural soil treatment, manufacturing aggregates, pigments, pharmaceuticals, construction materials, and much more.

Crystal healers consider calcite as a stone used for purification. In addition, calcite is a spiritual stone that helps to open higher consciousness and mental abilities. They also believe that calcite cleanses and improves the function of the kidneys, pancreas, and spleen. Crystal healers also believe that calcite balances the absorption of calcium within the body and strengthens all the joints.