Elbaite and Nephrite Physical Properties

Elbaite

Nephrite

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

Not Available

1.2 Solubility

Not Available

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

2.90-3.102.90-3.10

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

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

Splintery, Granular, Splintery, Granular, Gemstones (2009)

1.6 Cleavage

Poor/indistinct on {1120} and {1011}

Not Available

1.7 Mohs Hardness

76-6.5

2 10

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

Ca 2(Mg,Fe) 5(OH) 2Walter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references

Elbaite and Nephrite Chemical Formula

While comparing Elbaite and Nephrite 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 Nephrite 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 Nephrite- Ca 2(Mg,Fe) 5(OH) 2Walter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references

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Elbaite and Nephrite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Elbaite and Nephrite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Elbaite and Nephrite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Elbaite is 2.90-3.10 whereas that of Nephrite is 2.90-3.10.