Elbaite and Bowenite Physical Properties
Specific Gravity
2.90-3.10
2.58-2.80
Fracture
Uneven, Conchoidal
Uneven, Irregular
Cleavage
Poor/indistinct on {1120} and {1011}
Perfect
Chemical Composition
Na(Li 1.5Al 1.5)Al 6(Si 6O 18)(BO 3) 3(OH) 3(OH)Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012) More from other references
(Mg,Fe2+ ) 3Si 2O 5(OH) 4Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)
Elbaite and Bowenite Chemical Formula
While comparing Elbaite and Bowenite 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 Elbaite and Bowenite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Elbaite- Na(Li 1.5Al 1.5)Al 6(Si 6O 18)(BO 3) 3(OH) 3(OH)Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012) More from other references
- Chemical formula of Bowenite- (Mg,Fe2+ ) 3Si 2O 5(OH) 4Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)
Elbaite and Bowenite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Elbaite and Bowenite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Elbaite and Bowenite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Elbaite is 2.58-2.80 whereas that of Bowenite is 2.58-2.80.