Cassiterite and Moissanite Physical Properties

Cassiterite

Moissanite

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

Brittle

Not Available

1.2 Solubility

insoluble

none

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

6.86-7.033.17-3.24

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

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

Conchoidal, ConchoidalAnthony et al, Handbook of mineralogy (2001), Brittle

1.6 Cleavage

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

(0001) indistinct

1.7 Mohs Hardness

6-79-9.5

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

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

SiCArthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)

Cassiterite and Moissanite Chemical Formula

While comparing Cassiterite 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 Cassiterite and Moissanite chemical formula.

Chemical formula of Cassiterite- SnO 2Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Chemical formula of Moissanite- SiCArthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)

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Cassiterite and Moissanite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Cassiterite and Moissanite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Cassiterite and Moissanite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Cassiterite is 3.17-3.24 whereas that of Moissanite is 3.17-3.24.