Caledonite and Moissanite Physical Properties
Tenacity
Brittle
Not Available
Solubility
Not Available
none
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
5.6-5.76
3.17-3.24
Fracture
Uneven, UnevenAnthony et al, Handbook of mineralogy (2001)
Conchoidal, ConchoidalAnthony et al, Handbook of mineralogy (2001), Brittle
Cleavage
[001] perfect; [100] distinct
(0001) indistinct
Mohs Hardness
2.5-3
9-9.5
Chemical Composition
Pb 5Cu 2(SO 4) 3(CO 3)(OH) 6Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)
SiCArthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)
Caledonite and Moissanite Chemical Formula
While comparing Caledonite and Moissanite 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 Moissanite 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 Moissanite- SiCArthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)
Caledonite and Moissanite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Caledonite and Moissanite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Caledonite and Moissanite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Caledonite is 3.17-3.24 whereas that of Moissanite is 3.17-3.24.