They are produced by the precipitation of calcite as excess carbon dioxide diffuses from water droplets entering a cave environment. They are produced again by the precipitation of calcite as excess carbon dioxide diffuses from water droplets, but this time striking the floor. Dripstone is calcium carbonate rock deposited in caves by the precipitation of calcite from water as excess dissolved carbon dioxide is diffused into the atmosphere.
Dripstone takes various forms, including stalactites, helictites, curtains, ribbons and stalagmites.