Elbaite and Sphalerite Physical Properties
Specific Gravity
2.90-3.10
3.95-4.10
Fracture
Uneven, Conchoidal
Uneven
Cleavage
Poor/indistinct on {1120} and {1011}
{110} Perfect, {110} Perfect, {110} Perfect
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
(Zn,Fe)SMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Elbaite and Sphalerite Chemical Formula
While comparing Elbaite and Sphalerite 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 Sphalerite 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 Sphalerite- (Zn,Fe)SMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Elbaite and Sphalerite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Elbaite and Sphalerite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Elbaite and Sphalerite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Elbaite is 3.95-4.10 whereas that of Sphalerite is 3.95-4.10.