Forsterite and Afghanite Physical Properties

Forsterite

Afghanite

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

Not Available

1.2 Solubility

Not Available

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

3.23-3.262.55-2.65

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

Conchoidal, ConchoidalAnthony et al, Handbook of mineralogy (2001), Conchoidal, Brittle

Conchoidal, ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Conchoidal, Brittle, Conchoidal, Brittle

1.6 Cleavage

Perfect on {010} imperfect on {100}

Perfect {10 1 0}

1.7 Mohs Hardness

6.5-75.5-6

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

Mg 2SiO 4Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)

(Na,Ca,K) 8(Si,Al) 12O 24(SO 4,Cl,CO 3) 3(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)

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 OâDonoghue , 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)

Compare Green Gemstones

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Forsterite Vs Grossular

Forsterite Vs Grandidierite

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.