Red and Gold Calcite

Bright red-orange and golden yellows abound in this vibrant Calcite and Aragonite stone specimen from Mexico. 

The colors are a result of layered deposition in which different "impurities", like iron-inclusions, create alternating bands of colors and lovely patterns within the stone. 

Calcite can form in a variety of colors and shapes. This piece formed in a massive-style deposit. Rather than forming into individual single crystals, the Calcite formed in a large vein, allowing it to be removed as larger pieces or "masses". This specimen displays well from multiple angles, and even fluoresces under UV light!

Please note: A thin layer of iron-rich Hematite is also present in this specimen. It is possible when touching the darker, hematite-rich areas of the specimen to find a rust-like coloration on your fingers. You can wash your hands with soap and water to remove.