Ettringite and Gypsum Physical Properties

Ettringite

Gypsum

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

Not Available

Flexible

1.2 Solubility

Partially soluble in water

Soluble

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

1.772.20-2.40

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

Not Available

Conchoidal, Splintery, Fibrous, UnevenArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009)

1.6 Cleavage

Perfect on {10 1 0}

Perfect on {010}, distinct on {100}

1.7 Mohs Hardness

2-2.52

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

Ca 6Al 2(SO 4) 3(OH) 12 26H 2OMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)

CaSO 4 -2(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)

Ettringite and Gypsum Chemical Formula

While comparing Ettringite and Gypsum 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 Gypsum chemical formula.

Chemical formula of Ettringite- Ca 6Al 2(SO 4) 3(OH) 12 26H 2OMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)
Chemical formula of Gypsum- CaSO 4 -2(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)

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Ettringite and Gypsum Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Ettringite and Gypsum Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Ettringite and Gypsum Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Ettringite is 2.20-2.40 whereas that of Gypsum is 2.20-2.40.