Cordierite and Sillimanite Physical Properties

Cordierite

Sillimanite

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

Brittle

Tough

1.2 Solubility

Not Available

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

2.57-2.663.20-3.26

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

Subconchoidal, Conchoidal, Brittle

Splintery

1.6 Cleavage

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

{010} perfect

1.7 Mohs Hardness

7-7.56-7.5

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

Mg2Al4Si5O18

Al 2SiO 5Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)

Cordierite and Sillimanite Chemical Formula

While comparing Cordierite and Sillimanite 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 Sillimanite chemical formula.

Chemical formula of Cordierite- Mg2Al4Si5O18
Chemical formula of Sillimanite- Al 2SiO 5Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)

Compare Blue Gemstones

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Cordierite Vs Rosasite

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Cordierite and Sillimanite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Cordierite and Sillimanite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Cordierite and Sillimanite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Cordierite is 3.20-3.26 whereas that of Sillimanite is 3.20-3.26.