Album: Calcite Crystal

Jewel Cave National Monument

Calcite crystal formations at Jewel Cave. Calcite crystals can be seen coating most of the walls throughout Jewel Cave. Naturally a translucent white, calcite can be colored by the inclusion of other minerals, and may also appear brown or black from a coating of manganese. Two main crystal forms can be found at Jewel Cave - pointy Dogtooth Spar, and blunter Nailhead Spar.