Bustamite and Elbaite Physical Properties
Solubility
Partly soluble in HCl.
-
Specific Gravity
3.32-3.43
2.90-3.10
Fracture
Conchoidal
Uneven, Conchoidal
Cleavage
{100} perfect; {110} and {1 1 0} good; {010} poor
Poor/indistinct on {1120} and {1011}
Chemical Composition
(Ca,Mn2+ )Si 3O 9Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Na(Li 1.5Al 1.5)Al 6(Si 6O 18)(BO 3) 3(OH) 3(OH)Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012) More from other references
Bustamite and Elbaite Chemical Formula
While comparing Bustamite and Elbaite 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 Bustamite and Elbaite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Bustamite- (Ca,Mn2+ )Si 3O 9Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
- Chemical formula of Elbaite- Na(Li 1.5Al 1.5)Al 6(Si 6O 18)(BO 3) 3(OH) 3(OH)Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012) More from other references
Bustamite and Elbaite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Bustamite and Elbaite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Bustamite and Elbaite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Bustamite is 2.90-3.10 whereas that of Elbaite is 2.90-3.10.