The invention is related to a calcium phosphate composition comprising at least one calcium phosphate mineral, at least one reaction retarding agent, at least one binding agent, and at least one sodium phosphate compound, and a calcium phosphate cement comprising a powdered first component comprising stabilized dicalcium phosphate dihydrate containing from about 10 ppm to about 60 ppm of magnesium, a powdered second component comprising a calcium phosphate mineral other than said stabilized dicalcium phosphate dihydrate, and a liquid third component comprising water.