Astrophyllite and Taaffeite Physical Properties

Astrophyllite and Taaffeite Chemical Formula

While comparing Astrophyllite and Taaffeite 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 Taaffeite 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 Taaffeite- Mg 3Al 8BeO 16Walter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references

Astrophyllite and Taaffeite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Astrophyllite and Taaffeite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Astrophyllite and Taaffeite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Astrophyllite is 3.60-3.61 whereas that of Taaffeite is 3.60-3.61.