Cassiterite and Spinel Physical Properties

Cassiterite

Spinel

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Physical Properties

Tenacity

Brittle

Solubility

insoluble

Durability

Specific Gravity

6.86-7.033.64-3.66

1 7.18

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Fracture

Subconchoidal, Uneven, Conchoidal, Irregular

Conchoidal, Uneven

Cleavage

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

None, but may exhibit slight parting

Mohs Hardness

6-78

2 10

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Chemical Composition

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

MgAl₂O₄

Cassiterite and Spinel Chemical Formula

While comparing Cassiterite and Spinel 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 Spinel chemical formula.

Chemical formula of Cassiterite- SnO 2Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Chemical formula of Spinel- MgAl₂O₄

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Cassiterite and Spinel Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Cassiterite and Spinel Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Cassiterite and Spinel Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Cassiterite is 3.64-3.66 whereas that of Spinel is 3.64-3.66.