Alunite and Spinel Physical Properties
Tenacity
Brittle
  
Not Available
  
Solubility
Soluble
  
none
  
Durability
Not Available
  
Not Available
  
Specific Gravity
2.6-2.9
  
3.64-3.66
  
Fracture
Conchoidal, Uneven
  
Conchoidal, Uneven, ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009)
  
Cleavage
On {0001}, perfect
  
None, but may exhibit slight parting
  
Mohs Hardness
3.5-4
  
8
  
Chemical Composition
KAl3(SO4)2(OH)6
  
MgAl2O4
  
Alunite and Spinel Chemical Formula
While comparing Alunite 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 Alunite and Spinel chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Alunite- KAl3(SO4)2(OH)6
- Chemical formula of Spinel- MgAl2O4
Alunite and Spinel Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Alunite and Spinel Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Alunite and Spinel Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Alunite is 3.64-3.66 whereas that of Spinel is 3.64-3.66.