Bastnasite and Siderite Physical Properties
Specific Gravity
4.95-5.0
3.83-3.89
Fracture
Uneven
Uneven, Conchoidal
Cleavage
Imperfect to indistinct on {10 1 0}, parting on {0001}
Perfect on {01 1 1}
Mohs Hardness
4-5
3.5-4.5
Chemical Composition
(Ce,La)(CO 3)FMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Fe2+ CO 3Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Bastnasite and Siderite Chemical Formula
While comparing Bastnasite and Siderite 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 Bastnasite and Siderite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Bastnasite- (Ce,La)(CO 3)FMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
- Chemical formula of Siderite- Fe2+ CO 3Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Bastnasite and Siderite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Bastnasite and Siderite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Bastnasite and Siderite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Bastnasite is 3.83-3.89 whereas that of Siderite is 3.83-3.89.