Forsterite and Alunite Physical Properties

Forsterite

Alunite

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

Not Available

Brittle

1.2 Solubility

Not Available

Soluble

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

3.23-3.262.6-2.9

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

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

Conchoidal, Uneven

1.6 Cleavage

Perfect on {010} imperfect on {100}

On {0001}, perfect

1.7 Mohs Hardness

6.5-73.5-4

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

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

KAl3(SO4)2(OH)6

Forsterite and Alunite Chemical Formula

While comparing Forsterite and Alunite 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 Alunite chemical formula.

Chemical formula of Forsterite- Mg 2SiO 4Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)
Chemical formula of Alunite- KAl3(SO4)2(OH)6

Compare Green Gemstones

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Forsterite Vs Hackmanite

Forsterite and Alunite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Forsterite and Alunite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Forsterite and Alunite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Forsterite is 2.6-2.9 whereas that of Alunite is 2.6-2.9.