Forsterite and Afghanite Physical Properties

Forsterite and Afghanite Chemical Formula

While comparing Forsterite and Afghanite 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 Forsterite and Afghanite chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Forsterite- Mg 2SiO 4Michael O’Donoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)
• Chemical formula of Afghanite- (Na,Ca,K) 8(Si,Al) 12O 24(SO 4,Cl,CO 3) 3(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)

Forsterite and Afghanite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Forsterite and Afghanite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Forsterite and Afghanite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Forsterite is 2.55-2.65 whereas that of Afghanite is 2.55-2.65.