Elbaite and Siderite Physical Properties
Specific Gravity
2.90-3.10
3.83-3.89
Fracture
Uneven, Conchoidal
Uneven, Conchoidal
Cleavage
Poor/indistinct on {1120} and {1011}
Perfect on {01 1 1}
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
Fe2+ CO 3Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Elbaite and Siderite Chemical Formula
While comparing Elbaite and Siderite 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 Siderite 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 Siderite- Fe2+ CO 3Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Elbaite and Siderite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Elbaite and Siderite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Elbaite and Siderite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Elbaite is 3.83-3.89 whereas that of Siderite is 3.83-3.89.