Where is Calcite with Hematite found?
Calcite (CaCO3) with Hematite (Fe2O3)
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Open the appCalcite with Hematite occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Calcite with Hematite
Cumbria, England
Known for excellent specimens of red calcite colored by hematite, often found in association with iron ore deposits.
Elmwood Mine, Carthage, Tennessee, USA
Produces world-class calcite crystals, some of which are stained or included with hematite, giving them a reddish hue.
Various localities in Mexico
Many Mexican mining districts yield calcite specimens, some with hematite inclusions or coatings.
Iron ore districts globally
Wherever iron ore (hematite) is present in carbonate-rich environments, this association can be found.
Collecting tips
- Look for characteristic calcite forms. Even with hematite present, the distinct rhombohedral or scalenohedral crystal habits of calcite are often visible.
- Check for cleavage. The perfect rhombohedral cleavage of calcite is a key diagnostic feature, even in hematite-stained specimens.
- Perform a scratch test (carefully). Calcite has a Mohs hardness of 3. Hematite is harder (5-6.5). If the hematite is a coating, it might scratch off, revealing the softer calcite beneath. If it's an inclusion, the overall hardness will still be dominated by calcite.
- Acid test (dilute HCl). Calcite will effervesce vigorously in dilute hydrochloric acid. Hematite will not react. This is a definitive test for the calcite component.
- Observe color distribution. Note whether the red/orange color is uniform, patchy, or concentrated on crystal faces, which can indicate how the hematite is incorporated.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Pink, red, orange, reddish-brown
- Luster:
- Vitreous to sub-vitreous (calcite), earthy to sub-metallic (hematite)
- Streak:
- White (calcite), reddish-brown (hematite - if enough is present to leave a streak)
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