Bytownite and Nephrite Physical Properties

Bytownite and Nephrite Chemical Formula

While comparing Bytownite and Nephrite 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 Bytownite and Nephrite chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Bytownite- Ca(70-90%)Na(30-10%)(Al,Si)AlSi 2O 8Michael O’Donoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)
• Chemical formula of Nephrite- Ca 2(Mg,Fe) 5(OH) 2Walter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references

Bytownite and Nephrite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Bytownite and Nephrite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Bytownite and Nephrite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Bytownite is 2.90-3.10 whereas that of Nephrite is 2.90-3.10.