Afghanite and Spinel Physical Properties
Tenacity
Not Available
Not Available
Solubility
Not Available
none
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
2.55-2.65
3.64-3.66
Fracture
Conchoidal, ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Conchoidal, Brittle, Conchoidal, Brittle
Conchoidal, Uneven, ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009)
Cleavage
Perfect {10 1 0}
None, but may exhibit slight parting
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
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.