Elbaite and Cassiterite Physical Properties
Specific Gravity
2.90-3.10
6.86-7.03
Fracture
Uneven, Conchoidal
Subconchoidal, Uneven, Conchoidal, Irregular
Cleavage
Poor/indistinct on {1120} and {1011}
{100} imperfect, {110} indistinct; partings on {111} or {011}
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
SnO 2Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Elbaite and Cassiterite Chemical Formula
While comparing Elbaite and Cassiterite 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 Cassiterite 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 Cassiterite- SnO 2Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Elbaite and Cassiterite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Elbaite and Cassiterite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Elbaite and Cassiterite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Elbaite is 6.86-7.03 whereas that of Cassiterite is 6.86-7.03.