Alabaster and Steatite Physical Properties

Alabaster and Steatite Chemical Formula

While comparing Alabaster and Steatite 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 Alabaster and Steatite chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Alabaster- CaSO 4 · 2H 2OWalter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001)
• Chemical formula of Steatite- Mg 3Si 4O 10(OH) 2Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012)

Alabaster and Steatite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Alabaster and Steatite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Alabaster and Steatite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Alabaster is 2.20-2.80 whereas that of Steatite is 2.20-2.80.