Lizardite and Nephrite Physical Properties

Lizardite and Nephrite Chemical Formula

While comparing Lizardite and Nephrite 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 Lizardite and Nephrite chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Lizardite- Mg 3Si 2O 5(OH) 4Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)
• Chemical formula of Nephrite- Ca 2(Mg,Fe) 5(OH) 2Walter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references

Lizardite and Nephrite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Lizardite and Nephrite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Lizardite and Nephrite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Lizardite is 2.90-3.10 whereas that of Nephrite is 2.90-3.10.