Elbaite and Caledonite Physical Properties
Specific Gravity
2.90-3.10
5.6-5.76
Fracture
Uneven, Conchoidal
Uneven
Cleavage
Poor/indistinct on {1120} and {1011}
[001] perfect; [100] distinct
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
Pb 5Cu 2(SO 4) 3(CO 3)(OH) 6Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)
Elbaite and Caledonite Chemical Formula
While comparing Elbaite 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 Elbaite and Caledonite 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 Caledonite- Pb 5Cu 2(SO 4) 3(CO 3)(OH) 6Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)
Elbaite and Caledonite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Elbaite and Caledonite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Elbaite and Caledonite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Elbaite is 5.6-5.76 whereas that of Caledonite is 5.6-5.76.