Caledonite and Gypsum Physical Properties

Caledonite

Gypsum

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

Brittle

Flexible

1.2 Solubility

Not Available

Soluble

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

5.6-5.762.20-2.40

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

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

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

1.6 Cleavage

[001] perfect; [100] distinct

Perfect on {010}, distinct on {100}

1.7 Mohs Hardness

2.5-32

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

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

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

Caledonite and Gypsum Chemical Formula

While comparing Caledonite 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 Caledonite and Gypsum 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 Gypsum- CaSO 4 -2(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)

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Caledonite and Gypsum Specific Gravity

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