Afghanite and Spinel Physical Properties

Afghanite

Spinel

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

Not Available

1.2 Solubility

Not Available

none

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

2.55-2.65

3.64-3.66

1.5 Fracture

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

Conchoidal, Uneven, ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009)

1.6 Cleavage

Perfect {10 1 0}

None, but may exhibit slight parting

1.7 Mohs Hardness

5.5-6

1.8 Chemical Composition

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

MgAl₂O₄

Afghanite and Spinel Chemical Formula

While comparing Afghanite and Spinel 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 Spinel 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 Spinel- MgAl₂O₄

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Afghanite and Spinel Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Afghanite and Spinel Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Afghanite and Spinel Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Afghanite is 3.64-3.66 whereas that of Spinel is 3.64-3.66.