Cordierite and Riebeckite Physical Properties
Tenacity
Brittle
  
Brittle
  
Solubility
Not Available
  
Not Available
  
Durability
Not Available
  
Not Available
  
Specific Gravity
2.57-2.66
  
3.28-3.44
  
Fracture
Subconchoidal, Conchoidal, Brittle
  
Uneven, Splintery, Brittle
  
Cleavage
Fair on {100}, poor on {001} and {010}
  
Perfect on {110}, intersecting at 56° and 124°; partings on {100} and {010}
  
Mohs Hardness
7-7.5
  
5.0-6.0
  
Chemical Composition
Mg2Al4Si5O18
  
Not Available
  
Cordierite and Riebeckite Chemical Formula
While comparing Cordierite and Riebeckite 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 Riebeckite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Cordierite- Mg2Al4Si5O18
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Cordierite and Riebeckite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Cordierite and Riebeckite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Cordierite and Riebeckite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Cordierite is 3.28-3.44 whereas that of Riebeckite is 3.28-3.44.