Calcite

Calcite is the most common carbonate mineral. It has a formula unit composition of CaCO₃. Its crystal system is trigonal and its habit varies more than any other mineral. Common habits are tabular and prismatic. Calcite has perfect rhombohedral cleavage.

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Calcium (Ca) atoms
A single carbonate (CO₃^2-) anion (note the 3-fold planar coordination)
Carbonate (CO₃^2-) anions
Single unit cell
All atoms

Crystallographic Data

Distribution and uses

Calcite is widely distributed and a major mineral of calcareous sedimentary (limestone) and metamorphic (marble) rocks. Limestone is used in cement, fertilzer, and building stone.

Reference

Graf, D. L. 1961. Crystallographic tables for the rhombohedral carbonates. American Mineralogist. 46:1283-1316

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Original release: 1 Oct 1998;