Forsterite and Howlite Physical Properties

Forsterite and Howlite Chemical Formula

While comparing Forsterite and Howlite 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 Howlite chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Forsterite- Mg 2SiO 4Michael O’Donoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)
• Chemical formula of Howlite- Ca 2B 5SiO 9(OH) 5Michael O’Donoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references

Forsterite and Howlite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Forsterite and Howlite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Forsterite and Howlite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Forsterite is 2.45-2.58 whereas that of Howlite is 2.45-2.58.