Ettringite and Forsterite Physical Properties

Ettringite and Forsterite Chemical Formula

While comparing Ettringite and Forsterite 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 Forsterite 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 Forsterite- Mg 2SiO 4Michael O’Donoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)

Ettringite and Forsterite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Ettringite and Forsterite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Ettringite and Forsterite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Ettringite is 3.23-3.26 whereas that of Forsterite is 3.23-3.26.