Elbaite and Cuprite Physical Properties

Elbaite

Cuprite

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

Not Available

Brittle

1.2 Solubility

Not Available

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

2.90-3.10

5.85-6.15

1.5 Fracture

Uneven, Conchoidal, Brittle, Uneven, ConchoidalAnthony et al, Handbook of mineralogy (2001), Conchoidal, Brittle

Conchoidal, Metallic, UnevenArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Brittle, Conchoidal

1.6 Cleavage

Poor/indistinct on {1120} and {1011}

Fair in four directions forming octahedrons

1.7 Mohs Hardness

3.5-4

1.8 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

Cu 2OMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references

Elbaite and Cuprite Chemical Formula

While comparing Elbaite and Cuprite 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 Cuprite 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 Cuprite- Cu 2OMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references

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Elbaite and Cuprite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Elbaite and Cuprite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Elbaite and Cuprite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Elbaite is 5.85-6.15 whereas that of Cuprite is 5.85-6.15.