A sedimentary rock composed primarily of calcium carbonate calcite . It often contains fossils and is an important industrial rock used in construction and cement production. Texture: Crystalline to fossiliferous. Rock type: Sedimentary Chemical/Biochemical. Grain size: Variable. Minerals present: Calcite, Aragonite, Dolomite. Formation: Forms from accumulation of marine organism shells, coral reefs, or precipitation of calcium carbonate from warm, shallow seas. Common geological settings: Found in marine environments, from shallow tropical seas to deep ocean floors. Major deposits in karst regions worldwide. Common look-alikes and related entries: Dolostone, Marble, Chalk.
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GeoMiner
Last updated
2026-03-30T14:39:42.556566+00:00
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Rocks — U.S. National Park Service. Authoritative overview of rock groups, the rock cycle, and geologic processes.
A sedimentary rock composed primarily of calcium carbonate calcite . It often contains fossils and is an important industrial rock used in construction and cement production.
How can you identify Limestone?
Compare several properties rather than relying on colour alone. This entry records rock type: Sedimentary Chemical/Biochemical; texture: Crystalline to fossiliferous; grain size: Variable; common minerals: Calcite, Aragonite, Dolomite. Confirm an important identification with additional field tests or qualified laboratory work.
How does Limestone form?
Forms from accumulation of marine organism shells, coral reefs, or precipitation of calcium carbonate from warm, shallow seas.
Where is Limestone commonly found?
Found in marine environments, from shallow tropical seas to deep ocean floors. Major deposits in karst regions worldwide.
What is Limestone commonly confused with?
Limestone may be confused with Dolostone, Marble, Chalk. Compare multiple diagnostic properties because colour and surface appearance can overlap.
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