Cordierite and Obsidian Physical Properties

Cordierite

Obsidian

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

Brittle

Not Available

1.2 Solubility

Not Available

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

2.57-2.662.35-2.60

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

Subconchoidal, Conchoidal, Brittle

Conchoidal, ConchoidalWalter Schumann, Conchoidal

1.6 Cleavage

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

Not Available

1.7 Mohs Hardness

7-7.55-5.5

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

Mg2Al4Si5O18

Not Available

Cordierite and Obsidian Chemical Formula

While comparing Cordierite and Obsidian 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 Obsidian chemical formula.

Chemical formula of Cordierite- Mg2Al4Si5O18

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Cordierite and Obsidian Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Cordierite and Obsidian Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Cordierite and Obsidian Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Cordierite is 2.35-2.60 whereas that of Obsidian is 2.35-2.60.