Achroite and Howlite Physical Properties
Tenacity
Not Available
Not Available
Solubility
Not Available
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
2.90-3.40
2.45-2.58
Fracture
Uneven, Uneven, ConchoidalWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001)
UnevenArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), UnevenArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Brittle, Conchoidal
Cleavage
Not Available
None
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.
Ca 2B 5SiO 9(OH) 5Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Achroite and Howlite Chemical Formula
While comparing Achroite and Howlite 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 Howlite 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 Howlite- Ca 2B 5SiO 9(OH) 5Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Achroite and Howlite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Achroite and Howlite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Achroite and Howlite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Achroite is 2.45-2.58 whereas that of Howlite is 2.45-2.58.