Chalcopyrite and Marcasite Physical Properties

Chalcopyrite and Marcasite Chemical Formula

While comparing Chalcopyrite and Marcasite 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 Chalcopyrite and Marcasite chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Chalcopyrite- CuFeS 2Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)
• Chemical formula of Marcasite- FeS 2Michael O’Donoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references

Chalcopyrite and Marcasite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Chalcopyrite and Marcasite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Chalcopyrite and Marcasite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Chalcopyrite is 4.80-4.90 whereas that of Marcasite is 4.80-4.90.