Caledonite and Atacamite Physical Properties

Caledonite

Atacamite

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

Brittle

1.2 Solubility

Not Available

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

5.6-5.763.745-3.776

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

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

Conchoidal, Conchoidal, Brittle

1.6 Cleavage

[001] perfect; [100] distinct

Perfect on {010}, fair on {101}

1.7 Mohs Hardness

2.5-33-3.5

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

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

Cu2Cl(OH)3

Caledonite and Atacamite Chemical Formula

While comparing Caledonite and Atacamite 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 Atacamite 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 Atacamite- Cu2Cl(OH)3

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Caledonite and Atacamite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Caledonite and Atacamite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Caledonite and Atacamite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Caledonite is 3.745-3.776 whereas that of Atacamite is 3.745-3.776.