Origin
Calcite is the main component of sedimentary limestone and chalk, and metamorphic marble. It is one of the most widely found minerals on the Earth’s surface. Most stalactites and stalagmites in caves are largely calcite. Calcite can also form as complex crystals, either on its own or in association with other minerals e.g., it often seen in amethyst geodes. The name comes from the Latin word for lime: calx.

Sources
Crystals buys its blue calcite from Madagascar whilst the green, orange and clear calcite is largely from Mexico.

Calcite and the ‘Greenhouse effect’ – what’s the link?
Many marine organisms (corals, diatoms, etc.) make their shells out of calcite, using carbon dioxide from the air dissolved in sea water. Seas therefore act as a vital ‘sink’ for at least some of the carbon dioxide produced by human activity.

Calcite and ammonites
Some ammonite fossils found in limestone, when prepared to reveal their inner structure, show chambers filled with beautiful pale green calcite or semi-filled with beds of tiny calcite crystals.

Holidaymakers to Devon
Have you seen the red calcite outcrops between Torquay and Paignton? Our first shop in Torquay sold this material in 1987/8 having been collected by Paul and Alex.

Ros Mason – March 2006
© Crystals (UK) Ltd. T/A Crystals Reg. No. 5056864.