Caledonite and Afghanite Physical Properties

Caledonite

Afghanite

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

Brittle

Not Available

1.2 Solubility

Not Available

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

5.6-5.762.55-2.65

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

Uneven, UnevenAnthony et al, Handbook of mineralogy (2001)

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

1.6 Cleavage

[001] perfect; [100] distinct

Perfect {10 1 0}

1.7 Mohs Hardness

2.5-35.5-6

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

Pb 5Cu 2(SO 4) 3(CO 3)(OH) 6Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)

(Na,Ca,K) 8(Si,Al) 12O 24(SO 4,Cl,CO 3) 3(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)

Caledonite and Afghanite Chemical Formula

While comparing Caledonite and Afghanite 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 Caledonite and Afghanite chemical formula.

Chemical formula of Caledonite- Pb 5Cu 2(SO 4) 3(CO 3)(OH) 6Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)
Chemical formula of Afghanite- (Na,Ca,K) 8(Si,Al) 12O 24(SO 4,Cl,CO 3) 3(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)

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Caledonite and Afghanite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Caledonite and Afghanite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Caledonite and Afghanite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Caledonite is 2.55-2.65 whereas that of Afghanite is 2.55-2.65.