06/17/2026
Calcite Rhombs are known for…
Special Double Refraction: Because of its unique crystal structure, it splits a single ray of light into two. If you place a clear rhomb over a piece of paper, you will see two identical images of the text. This property is scientifically known as birefringence.
Rhombic Cleavage: Calcite naturally cleaves (breaks) along parallel planes of weakness at specific angles, naturally forming symmetrical, slanting cubes. Even if you break a calcite rhomb into smaller pieces, each fragment will retain the same rhombus shape.
Historical Significance: In ancient history, it is believed that these crystals acted as the famous "sunstones" used by Viking navigators to locate the sun and navigate across open oceans, even through cloudy skies.
$5.00 each