Gaylussite and Halite Physical Properties
Physical Properties
Tenacity
Not Available
Brittle
Solubility
decomposes in water
Water-soluble
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
1.93-1.99
2.17
Fracture
Conchoidal, Conchoidal, Brittle
Conchoidal, Brittle, Metallic
Cleavage
perfect [110]
Perfect {001}, three directions cubic
Mohs Hardness
2.5
2.0-2.5
Chemical Composition
Na2Ca(CO3)2•5(H2O)
NaCl
Gaylussite and Halite Chemical Formula
While comparing Gaylussite and Halite 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 Gaylussite and Halite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Gaylussite- Na2Ca(CO3)2•5(H2O)
- Chemical formula of Halite- NaCl
Gaylussite and Halite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Gaylussite and Halite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Gaylussite and Halite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Gaylussite is 2.17 whereas that of Halite is 2.17.
