Halite and Aragonite Physical Properties
Solubility
Water-soluble
Dilute acid
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
2.17
2.93-2.96
Fracture
Conchoidal, Brittle, Metallic
Subconchoidal, ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Conchoidal, Brittle
Cleavage
Perfect {001}, three directions cubic
Distinct on {010}, imperfect {110} and {011}
Mohs Hardness
2.0-2.5
3.5-4
Chemical Composition
NaCl
CaCO 3Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Halite and Aragonite Chemical Formula
While comparing Halite and Aragonite 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 Halite and Aragonite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Halite- NaCl
- Chemical formula of Aragonite- CaCO 3Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Halite and Aragonite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Halite and Aragonite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Halite and Aragonite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Halite is 2.93-2.96 whereas that of Aragonite is 2.93-2.96.