Rose calcite Tower

Calcite is a rock-forming mineral with a chemical formula of CaCO3. It is extremely common and found throughout the world in sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous rocks. The most common form of calcium carbonate, calcite is known for the variety and beautiful development of its crystals.

Calcite most commonly occurs in sedimentary settings, particularly in shallow marine settings as the shells and hard parts of marine organisms. It is also found in hydrothermal veins and hot spring deposits.

Calcite and aragonite are polymorphs of calcium carbonate. The key difference between calcite and aragonite is that the crystal system of calcite is trigonal, whereas the crystal system of aragonite is orthorhombic.