Aragonite and Gypsum Physical Properties

Aragonite

Gypsum

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

Brittle

Flexible

1.2 Solubility

Dilute acid

Soluble

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

2.93-2.962.20-2.40

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

Subconchoidal, ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Conchoidal, Brittle

Conchoidal, Splintery, Fibrous, UnevenArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009)

1.6 Cleavage

Distinct on {010}, imperfect {110} and {011}

Perfect on {010}, distinct on {100}

1.7 Mohs Hardness

3.5-42

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

CaCO 3Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references

CaSO 4 -2(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)

Aragonite and Gypsum Chemical Formula

While comparing Aragonite and Gypsum 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 Aragonite and Gypsum chemical formula.

Chemical formula of Aragonite- CaCO 3Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Chemical formula of Gypsum- CaSO 4 -2(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)

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Aragonite and Gypsum Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Aragonite and Gypsum Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Aragonite and Gypsum Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Aragonite is 2.20-2.40 whereas that of Gypsum is 2.20-2.40.