Ettringite and Steatite Physical Properties

Ettringite and Steatite Chemical Formula

While comparing Ettringite and Steatite 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 Steatite 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 Steatite- Mg 3Si 4O 10(OH) 2Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012)

Ettringite and Steatite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Ettringite and Steatite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Ettringite and Steatite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Ettringite is 2.20-2.80 whereas that of Steatite is 2.20-2.80.