Calcite Vs. Celestine

Calcite is a very popular mineral composed of calcium carbonate.^[1] Celestine is also a very popular mineral and its chemical composition is strontium sulfate.^[2]

Quick Facts on Differences of Calcite and Celestine

For a quick recap of the differences calcite and celestine:

• While both calcite and celestine can be translucent or transparent, calcite can be opaque.
• In terms of crystallography, calcite can be hexagonal or trigonal while celestine is orthorhombic.
• For chemical formulas, calcite is CaCO3 while celestine is SrSO4.
• Calcite can be commonly red while celestine can be commonly blue or brown.
• Calcite's specific gravity is lower than celestine - calcite ranges from 2.71 to 2.94 and celestine ranges from 3.9 to 4.

Quick Facts on Similarities of Calcite and Celestine

The similarities of calcite and celestine include:

• In terms of luster, calcite and celestine both can be pearly or vitreous.
• Calcite and celestine both streak white.
• Calcite's rarity is similar to celestine.

Summary of Calcite

Calcite is a mineral that is widely distributed throughout the world. It is a carbonate mineral that is composed of calcium carbonate, which gives it a white or colorless appearance. Calcite is often found in sedimentary rocks, such as limestone and marble, as well as in hydrothermal veins and in some metamorphic rocks. It is also found in the shells of marine organisms, such as clams and oysters.

Summary of Celestine

Celestine, also known as celestite, is a mineral that is typically found in sedimentary rocks and geodes. It is a strontium sulfate mineral that has a unique blue color, making it easily distinguishable from other minerals. Celestine is often found in clusters or aggregates, and its crystals are usually tabular or prismatic in shape. It has a hardness of 3-3.5 on the Mohs scale and a specific gravity of 3.9-4.0.

Table Comparison of Calcite vs Celestine