Achroite and Atacamite Physical Properties
Tenacity
Not Available
Brittle
Solubility
Not Available
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
2.90-3.40
3.745-3.776
Fracture
Uneven, Uneven, ConchoidalWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001)
Conchoidal, Conchoidal, Brittle
Cleavage
Not Available
Perfect on {010}, fair on {101}
Mohs Hardness
7-7.5
3-3.5
Chemical Composition
Na(Li 1.5Al 1.5)Al 6(Si 6O 18)(BO 3) 3(OH) 3(OH)Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012) Formula given for elbaite.
Cu2Cl(OH)3
Achroite and Atacamite Chemical Formula
While comparing Achroite and Atacamite physical properties, the important data you should know is its chemical composition. Since chemical formula defines the molecular structure of the crystal, most of the physical properties like color, tenacity, solubility are governed by Achroite and Atacamite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Achroite- Na(Li 1.5Al 1.5)Al 6(Si 6O 18)(BO 3) 3(OH) 3(OH)Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012) Formula given for elbaite.
- Chemical formula of Atacamite- Cu2Cl(OH)3
Achroite and Atacamite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Achroite and Atacamite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Achroite and Atacamite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Achroite is 3.745-3.776 whereas that of Atacamite is 3.745-3.776.