Forsterite and Richterite Physical Properties

Forsterite and Richterite Chemical Formula

While comparing Forsterite and Richterite 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 Richterite chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Forsterite- Mg 2SiO 4Michael O’Donoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)
• Chemical formula of Richterite- Na(CaNa)(Mg,Fe++)5(Si8O22)(OH)2

Forsterite and Richterite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Forsterite and Richterite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Forsterite and Richterite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Forsterite is 3.0-3.5 whereas that of Richterite is 3.0-3.5.