Afghanite and Alexandrite Physical Properties

Afghanite

Alexandrite

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

Not Available

1.2 Solubility

Not Available

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

2.55-2.65

3.69-3.81

1.5 Fracture

Conchoidal, ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Conchoidal, Brittle, Conchoidal, Brittle

Not Available

1.6 Cleavage

Perfect {10 1 0}

1,1 ; 3,2.

1.7 Mohs Hardness

5.5-6

8.5

1.8 Chemical Composition

(Na,Ca,K) 8(Si,Al) 12O 24(SO 4,Cl,CO 3) 3(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)

BeAl ₂ O ₄

Afghanite and Alexandrite Chemical Formula

While comparing Afghanite and Alexandrite 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 Afghanite and Alexandrite chemical formula.

Chemical formula of Afghanite- (Na,Ca,K) 8(Si,Al) 12O 24(SO 4,Cl,CO 3) 3(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)
Chemical formula of Alexandrite- BeAl ₂ O ₄

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Afghanite and Alexandrite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Afghanite and Alexandrite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Afghanite and Alexandrite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Afghanite is 3.69-3.81 whereas that of Alexandrite is 3.69-3.81.