Elbaite and Howlite Physical Properties

Elbaite and Howlite Chemical Formula

While comparing Elbaite and Howlite 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 Howlite 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 Howlite- Ca 2B 5SiO 9(OH) 5Michael O’Donoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references

Elbaite and Howlite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Elbaite and Howlite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Elbaite and Howlite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Elbaite is 2.45-2.58 whereas that of Howlite is 2.45-2.58.