Astrophyllite and Steatite Physical Properties

Astrophyllite

Steatite

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

Not Available

1.2 Solubility

Not Available

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

3.2-3.42.20-2.80

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

Uneven, Brittle, Metallic

Not Available

1.6 Cleavage

Perfect on [001] imperfect on [100]

Not Available

1.7 Mohs Hardness

3Not Available

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

(K,Na) 3(Fe2+ ,Mn) 7Ti 2Si 8O 24(O,OH) 7Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)

Mg 3Si 4O 10(OH) 2Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012)

Astrophyllite and Steatite Chemical Formula

While comparing Astrophyllite 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 Astrophyllite and Steatite 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 Steatite- Mg 3Si 4O 10(OH) 2Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012)

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Astrophyllite and Steatite Specific Gravity

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