Baryte and Witherite Physical Properties
Tenacity
Brittle
Not Available
Solubility
Soluble
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
4.3-5
4.27-4.35
Fracture
Irregular/uneven
UnevenArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), UnevenArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Conchoidal, Brittle
Cleavage
Perfect cleavage parallel to base and prism faces: {001} Perfect, {210} Perfect, {010} Imperfect
{010} Distinct
Mohs Hardness
3-3.5
3-3.5
Chemical Composition
Not Available
BaCO 3Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Baryte and Witherite Chemical Formula
While comparing Baryte and Witherite 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 Baryte and Witherite chemical formula.
>- Chemical formula of Witherite- BaCO 3Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Baryte and Witherite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Baryte and Witherite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Baryte and Witherite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Baryte is 4.27-4.35 whereas that of Witherite is 4.27-4.35.