Jade and Melanite Physical Properties
Tenacity
Not Available
Not Available
Solubility
Not Available
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
2.90-3.38
3.70-4.10
Fracture
Gemstones of the world (2001), Difficult, Splintery
ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009)
Cleavage
1 or 2,2 prismatic.
Not Available
Chemical Composition
Nephrite: Ca2(Mg,Fe)5Si8O22(OH)2 Jadeite: NaAlSi2O6
Ca 3Fe 2(SiO 4) 3Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)
Jade and Melanite Chemical Formula
While comparing Jade and Melanite 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 Jade and Melanite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Jade- Nephrite: Ca2(Mg,Fe)5Si8O22(OH)2 Jadeite: NaAlSi2O6
- Chemical formula of Melanite- Ca 3Fe 2(SiO 4) 3Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)
Jade and Melanite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Jade and Melanite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Jade and Melanite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Jade is 3.70-4.10 whereas that of Melanite is 3.70-4.10.