Cordierite and Caledonite Physical Properties

Cordierite

Caledonite

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

Brittle

1.2 Solubility

Not Available

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

2.57-2.665.6-5.76

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

Subconchoidal, Conchoidal, Brittle

Uneven, UnevenAnthony et al, Handbook of mineralogy (2001)

1.6 Cleavage

Fair on {100}, poor on {001} and {010}

[001] perfect; [100] distinct

1.7 Mohs Hardness

7-7.52.5-3

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

Mg2Al4Si5O18

Pb 5Cu 2(SO 4) 3(CO 3)(OH) 6Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)

Cordierite and Caledonite Chemical Formula

While comparing Cordierite and Caledonite 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 Cordierite and Caledonite chemical formula.

Chemical formula of Cordierite- Mg2Al4Si5O18
Chemical formula of Caledonite- Pb 5Cu 2(SO 4) 3(CO 3)(OH) 6Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)

Compare Blue Gemstones

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Cordierite Vs Riebeckite

Cordierite Vs Plumbogummite

Cordierite and Caledonite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Cordierite and Caledonite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Cordierite and Caledonite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Cordierite is 5.6-5.76 whereas that of Caledonite is 5.6-5.76.