Cinnabar and Marcasite Physical Properties
Tenacity
Slightly sectile
Not Available
Solubility
1.04 x 10−25 g per 100 ml water (Ksp at 25°C = 2 x 10−32)
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
2
4.80-4.90
Fracture
Uneven, Uneven, Gemstones (2009), Brittle
UnevenArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), UnevenArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Uneven
Cleavage
Prismatic {10 1 0}, perfect
{010} Indistinct
Mohs Hardness
2-2.5
6-6.5
Chemical Composition
HgSMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
FeS 2Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Cinnabar and Marcasite Chemical Formula
While comparing Cinnabar 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 Cinnabar and Marcasite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Cinnabar- HgSMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
- Chemical formula of Marcasite- FeS 2Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Cinnabar and Marcasite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Cinnabar and Marcasite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Cinnabar and Marcasite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Cinnabar is 4.80-4.90 whereas that of Marcasite is 4.80-4.90.