Cassiterite and Smithsonite Physical Properties

Cassiterite

Smithsonite

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

Brittle

1.2 Solubility

insoluble

Not Available

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

6.86-7.034.00-4.65

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

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

Uneven, Sub-Conchoidal, UnevenWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references, Brittle, Metallic

1.6 Cleavage

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

Perfect on [1011]

1.7 Mohs Hardness

6-75-5.5

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

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

ZnCO 3Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references

Cassiterite and Smithsonite Chemical Formula

While comparing Cassiterite and Smithsonite 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 Smithsonite chemical formula.

Chemical formula of Cassiterite- SnO 2Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Chemical formula of Smithsonite- ZnCO 3Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references

Compare Red Gemstones

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Cassiterite Vs Chrome-Chalcedony

Cassiterite Vs Chrome Tourmaline

Cassiterite and Smithsonite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Cassiterite and Smithsonite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Cassiterite and Smithsonite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Cassiterite is 4.00-4.65 whereas that of Smithsonite is 4.00-4.65.