6″ Natural Dogtooth Calcite Slab High Grade Calcite Crystal Slice Polished Mineral Specimen with Certificate of Authenticity

Description

6″ Natural Dogtooth Calcite Slab – Genuine High Grade Calcite Crystal Specimen

This 6-inch Natural Dogtooth Calcite Slab is a beautifully cut and polished specimen showcasing the distinctive crystal patterns of dogtooth calcite. The photographs show the exact slab you will receive, ensuring complete accuracy and transparency. As with all of our minerals, this piece is 100% genuine and includes a Certificate of Authenticity. Dogtooth calcite is well known for its dramatic scalenohedral crystal formations, and when sliced, these structures create stunning geometric and layered internal patterns highly prized by collectors.

Geological Background and Formation of Dogtooth Calcite

Calcite is a calcium carbonate mineral (CaCO₃) and one of the most widespread minerals in the Earth’s crust. It forms in countless geological environments, ranging from sedimentary limestone beds to hydrothermal veins, caves, and metamorphic deposits. Dogtooth calcite is a special variety characterised by scalenohedral crystals that resemble pointed “teeth,” giving rise to its name.

Dogtooth calcite typically forms inside cavities, vugs, and geodes where mineral-rich groundwater slowly deposits layer after layer of calcite. As conditions vary—especially temperature and chemical composition—the crystals grow into sharply pointed forms with distinct triangular faces. Over time, large groups of these crystals cluster together, creating impressive natural sculptures. When cut and polished into slabs, these tooth-like structures reveal striking internal patterns, showing cross-sections of their original growth.

Crystal Habit, Structure, and Natural Features

Dogtooth calcite belongs to the trigonal division of the hexagonal crystal system, forming elongated scalenohedrons with well-defined triangular faces. In slab form, these structures may appear as:

• Triangular, tooth-like internal shapes, representing the original crystal points
• Layered internal banding, showing growth stages or changes in mineral-rich fluids
• Translucent to opaque zones, depending on impurities and trapped micro-inclusions
• Light honey, cream, or golden tones, common in calcite with small traces of iron
• Reflective cleavage surfaces, a hallmark of calcite’s perfect rhombohedral cleavage

The polished surface enhances the visual contrast of the internal formations. Subtle inclusions, natural veining, or minor fractures may also be present, each contributing to the specimen’s geological history and authenticity.

Mineralogical and Geological Significance

Dogtooth calcite is highly valued in mineralogy due to its distinctive scalenohedral habit, which provides insight into the crystallisation conditions within geological cavities. Its formation requires stable temperature and pressure conditions along with continuous access to mineral-rich groundwater. By studying the internal structures of slabs such as this one, geologists can better understand fluid movement, mineral deposition, and the environmental changes that occurred over thousands to millions of years.

Calcite itself is a foundational mineral in geology, forming the basis of limestone, marble, and many cave formations. Its chemical reactivity, optical properties, and diversity of crystal forms make it an essential mineral for scientific study.

Aesthetic and Display Qualities

This 6″ Dogtooth Calcite Slab offers a unique perspective on calcite crystallisation. The internal “teeth” formations create visually captivating geometric patterns, while the polished finish enhances colour, depth, and natural translucency. Such slabs are highly desirable for:

• Mineral and crystal collectors
• Geological study and educational displays
• Interior décor or natural art settings
• Lapidary collections and specimen cabinets

Its combination of scientific interest and natural beauty makes it an exceptional display piece.

Authenticity and What You Receive

You will receive the exact Natural Dogtooth Calcite Slab shown in the photographs. Full sizing and thickness are clearly displayed in the product images. Each slab is hand-selected for pattern quality, mineral integrity, and aesthetic appeal. A Certificate of Authenticity is included with every purchase, confirming this as a genuine natural calcite specimen.

This high-grade dogtooth calcite slab is perfect for collectors, display enthusiasts, educators, or anyone who appreciates the extraordinary crystal architecture produced by nature’s slow geological processes.