Gypsum and Ettringite Physical Properties

Gypsum

Ettringite

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Physical Properties

Tenacity

Solubility

Durability

Specific Gravity

Fracture

Cleavage

Mohs Hardness

Chemical Composition

Flexible

Soluble

2.20-2.40

Conchoidal, Splintery, Fibrous

Perfect on {010}, distinct on {100}

CaSO 4 -2(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)

Partially soluble in water

1.77

Perfect on {10 1 0}

2-2.5

Ca 6Al 2(SO 4) 3(OH) 12 26H 2OMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)

Gypsum and Ettringite Chemical Formula

While comparing Gypsum and Ettringite 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 Gypsum and Ettringite chemical formula.

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Gypsum and Ettringite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Gypsum and Ettringite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Gypsum Vs Ettringite during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Gypsum is whereas that of Ettringite is .