Calcite and Gypsum Physical Properties

Calcite

Gypsum

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

Brittle

Flexible

1.2 Solubility

Soluble

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

2.67-2.732.20-2.40

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

Conchoidal, ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Brittle, Conchoidal

Conchoidal, Splintery, Fibrous, UnevenArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009)

1.6 Cleavage

Perfect on [10 1 1] three directions with angle of 74° 55

Perfect on {010}, distinct on {100}

1.7 Mohs Hardness

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

CaCO 3Ulrich Henn and Claudio C.

CaSO 4 -2(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)

Calcite and Gypsum Chemical Formula

While comparing Calcite and Gypsum 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 Gypsum chemical formula.

Chemical formula of Calcite- CaCO 3Ulrich Henn and Claudio C.
Chemical formula of Gypsum- CaSO 4 -2(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)

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Calcite and Gypsum Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Calcite and Gypsum Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Calcite and Gypsum Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Calcite is 2.20-2.40 whereas that of Gypsum is 2.20-2.40.