Calcite

Calcite

The unit cell of calcite

Calcite is one of the most widely distributed minerals on the Earth's surface. It is a common constituent of sedimentary rocks, limestone in particular. It is also the primary mineral in metamorphic marble.

It is a chemical or biochemical calcium carbonate corresponding to the formula CaCO₃ and belongs to the carbonate mineral. One can find it as a vein mineral in deposits from hot springs, and in caverns as stalactites and stalagmites.

Other websites

• Information about the largest and most famous calcite crystals

Wikisource has original 1911 Encyclopædia Britannica text related to:

Calcite