Calcite and Aragonite Physical Properties
Solubility
Soluble
Dilute acid
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
2.67-2.73
2.93-2.96
Fracture
Conchoidal, ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Brittle, Conchoidal
Subconchoidal, ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Conchoidal, Brittle
Cleavage
Perfect on [10 1 1] three directions with angle of 74° 55
Distinct on {010}, imperfect {110} and {011}
Chemical Composition
CaCO 3Ulrich Henn and Claudio C.
CaCO 3Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Calcite and Aragonite Chemical Formula
While comparing Calcite and Aragonite 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 Calcite and Aragonite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Calcite- CaCO 3Ulrich Henn and Claudio C.
- Chemical formula of Aragonite- CaCO 3Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Calcite and Aragonite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Calcite and Aragonite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Calcite and Aragonite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Calcite is 2.93-2.96 whereas that of Aragonite is 2.93-2.96.