Astrophyllite and Elbaite Physical Properties
Specific Gravity
3.2-3.4
2.90-3.10
Fracture
Uneven
Uneven, Conchoidal
Cleavage
Perfect on [001] imperfect on [100]
Poor/indistinct on {1120} and {1011}
Chemical Composition
(K,Na) 3(Fe2+ ,Mn) 7Ti 2Si 8O 24(O,OH) 7Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)
Na(Li 1.5Al 1.5)Al 6(Si 6O 18)(BO 3) 3(OH) 3(OH)Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012) More from other references
Astrophyllite and Elbaite Chemical Formula
While comparing Astrophyllite and Elbaite 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 Astrophyllite and Elbaite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Astrophyllite- (K,Na) 3(Fe2+ ,Mn) 7Ti 2Si 8O 24(O,OH) 7Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)
- Chemical formula of Elbaite- Na(Li 1.5Al 1.5)Al 6(Si 6O 18)(BO 3) 3(OH) 3(OH)Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012) More from other references
Astrophyllite and Elbaite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Astrophyllite and Elbaite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Astrophyllite and Elbaite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Astrophyllite is 2.90-3.10 whereas that of Elbaite is 2.90-3.10.