Magnesite and Marcasite Physical Properties
Tenacity
Brittle
Not Available
Solubility
Effervesces in hot HCl
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
2.92-3.12
4.80-4.90
Fracture
Conchoidal, ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Brittle
UnevenArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), UnevenArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Uneven
Cleavage
[10 1 1] perfect
{010} Indistinct
Mohs Hardness
3.5-4.5
6-6.5
Chemical Composition
MgCO 3Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
FeS 2Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Magnesite and Marcasite Chemical Formula
While comparing Magnesite and Marcasite 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 Magnesite and Marcasite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Magnesite- MgCO 3Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
- Chemical formula of Marcasite- FeS 2Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Magnesite and Marcasite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Magnesite and Marcasite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Magnesite and Marcasite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Magnesite is 4.80-4.90 whereas that of Marcasite is 4.80-4.90.