Comparison · Minerals
Analcime vs Calcite
Analcime and Calcite are easy to confuse because both are minerals. Analcime is harder (Mohs 5–5.5) than Calcite (Mohs 3), so Analcime will scratch Calcite and not the other way round. A copper coin (Mohs 3.5) scratches it, but a fingernail does not. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Analcime and Calcite
- Analcime is harder (Mohs 5–5.5) than Calcite (Mohs 3), so Analcime will scratch Calcite and not the other way round. A copper coin (Mohs 3.5) scratches it, but a fingernail does not.
- Hold a thin edge to the light: Analcime is Transparent to translucent, Calcite is transparent.
- They overlap in clear, pink, and green, but Analcime also comes in gray and Calcite also comes in yellow, orange, and blue.
- Well-formed crystals give it away: Analcime is Isometric, Calcite is trigonal.
Analcime vs Calcite properties
| Property | Analcime | Calcite |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Minerals | Minerals |
| Mohs hardness | 5–5.5 | 3 |
| Luster | Vitreous | vitreous |
| Streak | White | White |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent | transparent |
| Specific gravity | 2.24–2.29 | 2.7 |
| Crystal system | Isometric | trigonal |
| Common colors | Colorless, White, Gray, Pink, Pale green | Colorless, White, Yellow, Orange, Blue, Green, Pink |
| Rarity | common | common |
| Typical specimen value | $2–$150+ | $2–$100+ |
Which is more valuable?
Analcime is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $20 against $15 for Calcite, and premium Analcime can reach $150 or more.
About Analcime
Analcime is a hydrated sodium aluminosilicate, NaAlSi2O6·H2O, and one of the few zeolites to crystallize in the isometric system rather than a lower-symmetry one. It typically forms trapezohedral crystals with twenty-four faces, giving specimens a distinctive rounded, many-sided appearance. Chemically it sits at the boundary between the zeolite and feldspathoid mineral groups.
About Calcite
Calcite is one of the most common minerals on Earth, found in sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous rocks. It's the primary component of limestone and marble.
Analcime vs Calcite FAQ
Is Analcime the same as Calcite?
No. Both are minerals, but they are distinct species with different hardness, streak or luster. Analcime is harder (Mohs 5–5.5) than Calcite (Mohs 3), so Analcime will scratch Calcite and not the other way round. A copper coin (Mohs 3.5) scratches it, but a fingernail does not.
How can you tell Analcime from Calcite?
Analcime is harder (Mohs 5–5.5) than Calcite (Mohs 3), so Analcime will scratch Calcite and not the other way round. A copper coin (Mohs 3.5) scratches it, but a fingernail does not. Hold a thin edge to the light: Analcime is Transparent to translucent, Calcite is transparent. They overlap in clear, pink, and green, but Analcime also comes in gray and Calcite also comes in yellow, orange, and blue.
Which is harder, Analcime or Calcite?
Analcime is harder: Mohs 5–5.5 against Mohs 3 for Calcite.
Which is more valuable, Analcime or Calcite?
Analcime is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $20 against $15 for Calcite, and premium Analcime can reach $150 or more.
