Comparison · Minerals vs Silicate Minerals
Calcite vs Prasiolite
Calcite and Prasiolite are easy to confuse. Prasiolite is harder (Mohs 7) than Calcite (Mohs 3), so Prasiolite 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 Calcite and Prasiolite
- Prasiolite is harder (Mohs 7) than Calcite (Mohs 3), so Prasiolite will scratch Calcite and not the other way round. A copper coin (Mohs 3.5) scratches it, but a fingernail does not.
- They overlap in yellow and green, but Calcite also comes in clear, orange, blue, and pink.
Calcite vs Prasiolite properties
| Property | Calcite | Prasiolite |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Minerals | Silicate Minerals |
| Mohs hardness | 3 | 7 |
| Luster | vitreous | vitreous |
| Streak | White | White |
| Transparency | transparent | transparent |
| Specific gravity | 2.7 | 2.65 |
| Crystal system | trigonal | trigonal |
| Common colors | Colorless, White, Yellow, Orange, Blue, Green, Pink | Green, Pale green, Yellowish green |
| Rarity | common | uncommon |
| Typical specimen value | $2–$100+ | $10–$300+ |
Which is more valuable?
Prasiolite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $60 against $15 for Calcite, and premium Prasiolite can reach $300 or more.
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.
About Prasiolite
Prasiolite is a pale leek-green variety of quartz, transparent and glassy with the same hardness and durability as other quartz. Most prasiolite on the market is heat-treated amethyst, since naturally green quartz is uncommon.
Calcite vs Prasiolite FAQ
Is Calcite the same as Prasiolite?
No. Calcite is a mineral while Prasiolite is a silicate mineral. Prasiolite is harder (Mohs 7) than Calcite (Mohs 3), so Prasiolite 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 Calcite from Prasiolite?
Prasiolite is harder (Mohs 7) than Calcite (Mohs 3), so Prasiolite will scratch Calcite and not the other way round. A copper coin (Mohs 3.5) scratches it, but a fingernail does not. They overlap in yellow and green, but Calcite also comes in clear, orange, blue, and pink.
Which is harder, Calcite or Prasiolite?
Prasiolite is harder: Mohs 7 against Mohs 3 for Calcite.
Which is more valuable, Calcite or Prasiolite?
Prasiolite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $60 against $15 for Calcite, and premium Prasiolite can reach $300 or more.
