Gypsum and Rock Crystal Physical Properties

Gypsum

Rock Crystal

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

Flexible

Not Available

1.2 Solubility

Soluble

Not Available

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

2.20-2.402.65

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

Conchoidal, Splintery, Fibrous, UnevenArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009)

ConchoidalWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001), ConchoidalWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001)

1.6 Cleavage

Perfect on {010}, distinct on {100}

Not Available

1.7 Mohs Hardness

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

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

SiO 2Walter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001)

Gypsum and Rock Crystal Chemical Formula

While comparing Gypsum and Rock Crystal 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 Rock Crystal chemical formula.

Chemical formula of Gypsum- CaSO 4 -2(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)
Chemical formula of Rock Crystal- SiO 2Walter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001)

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Gypsum and Rock Crystal Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Gypsum and Rock Crystal Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Gypsum and Rock Crystal Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Gypsum is 2.65 whereas that of Rock Crystal is 2.65.