Howlite and Taaffeite Physical Properties
Tenacity
Not Available
Not Available
Solubility
Not Available
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
2.45-2.58
3.60-3.61
Fracture
UnevenArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), UnevenArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Brittle, Conchoidal
Conchoidal
Cleavage
None
Imperfect/fair/absent
Mohs Hardness
3-3.5
8-8.5
Chemical Composition
Ca 2B 5SiO 9(OH) 5Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Mg 3Al 8BeO 16Walter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references
Howlite and Taaffeite Chemical Formula
While comparing Howlite and Taaffeite 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 Howlite and Taaffeite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Howlite- Ca 2B 5SiO 9(OH) 5Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
- Chemical formula of Taaffeite- Mg 3Al 8BeO 16Walter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references
Howlite and Taaffeite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Howlite and Taaffeite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Howlite and Taaffeite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Howlite is 3.60-3.61 whereas that of Taaffeite is 3.60-3.61.