Barite and Steatite Physical Properties

Barite and Steatite Chemical Formula

While comparing Barite 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 Barite and Steatite chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Barite- BaSO4
• Chemical formula of Steatite- Mg 3Si 4O 10(OH) 2Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012)

Barite and Steatite Specific Gravity

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