Cassiterite and Smithsonite Physical Properties
Solubility
insoluble
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
6.86-7.03
4.00-4.65
Fracture
Subconchoidal, Uneven, ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Irregular
Uneven, Sub-Conchoidal, UnevenWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references, Brittle, Metallic
Cleavage
{100} imperfect, {110} indistinct; partings on {111} or {011}
Perfect on [1011]
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
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.