Anthophyllite and Steatite Physical Properties

Anthophyllite and Steatite Chemical Formula

While comparing Anthophyllite 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 Anthophyllite and Steatite chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Anthophyllite- (Mg,Fe2+ ) 2(Mg,Fe2+ ) 5Si 8O 22(OH) 2Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)
• Chemical formula of Steatite- Mg 3Si 4O 10(OH) 2Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012)

Anthophyllite and Steatite Specific Gravity

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