Ettringite and Astrophyllite Physical Properties

Ettringite and Astrophyllite Chemical Formula

While comparing Ettringite and Astrophyllite 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 Ettringite and Astrophyllite chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Ettringite- Ca 6Al 2(SO 4) 3(OH) 12 26H 2OMichael O’Donoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)
• Chemical formula of Astrophyllite- (K,Na) 3(Fe2+ ,Mn) 7Ti 2Si 8O 24(O,OH) 7Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)

Ettringite and Astrophyllite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Ettringite and Astrophyllite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Ettringite and Astrophyllite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Ettringite is 3.2-3.4 whereas that of Astrophyllite is 3.2-3.4.