Cassiterite and Alunite Physical Properties

Cassiterite

Alunite

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

Brittle

1.2 Solubility

insoluble

Soluble

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

6.86-7.032.6-2.9

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

Subconchoidal, Uneven, ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Irregular

Conchoidal, Uneven

1.6 Cleavage

{100} imperfect, {110} indistinct; partings on {111} or {011}

On {0001}, perfect

1.7 Mohs Hardness

6-73.5-4

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

SnO 2Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references

KAl3(SO4)2(OH)6

Cassiterite and Alunite Chemical Formula

While comparing Cassiterite and Alunite 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 Cassiterite and Alunite chemical formula.

Chemical formula of Cassiterite- SnO 2Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Chemical formula of Alunite- KAl3(SO4)2(OH)6

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Cassiterite and Alunite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Cassiterite and Alunite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Cassiterite and Alunite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Cassiterite is 2.6-2.9 whereas that of Alunite is 2.6-2.9.