Alunite and Triplite Physical Properties
Tenacity
Brittle
Not Available
Solubility
Soluble
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
2.6-2.9
3.85-3.94
Fracture
Conchoidal, Uneven
ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Uneven
Cleavage
On {0001}, perfect
{010} Good, {100} Distinct
Mohs Hardness
3.5-4
5-5.5
Chemical Composition
KAl3(SO4)2(OH)6
(Mn2+ ,Fe2+ ,Mg,Ca) 2(PO 4)(F,OH)Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)
Alunite and Triplite Chemical Formula
While comparing Alunite and Triplite 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 Triplite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Alunite- KAl3(SO4)2(OH)6
- Chemical formula of Triplite- (Mn2+ ,Fe2+ ,Mg,Ca) 2(PO 4)(F,OH)Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)
Alunite and Triplite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Alunite and Triplite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Alunite and Triplite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Alunite is 3.85-3.94 whereas that of Triplite is 3.85-3.94.