Astrophyllite and Nephrite Physical Properties

Astrophyllite and Nephrite Chemical Formula

While comparing Astrophyllite and Nephrite 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 Nephrite 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 Nephrite- Ca 2(Mg,Fe) 5(OH) 2Walter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references

Astrophyllite and Nephrite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Astrophyllite and Nephrite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Astrophyllite and Nephrite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Astrophyllite is 2.90-3.10 whereas that of Nephrite is 2.90-3.10.