Marcasite and Variscite Physical Properties
Tenacity
Not Available
Not Available
Solubility
Not Available
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
4.80-4.90
2.42-2.58
Fracture
UnevenArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), UnevenArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Uneven
Conchoidal, Splintery, ConchoidalWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references, Brittle
Cleavage
{010} Indistinct
[010] perfect
Chemical Composition
FeS 2Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
AlPO4 · 2(H2O)
Marcasite and Variscite Chemical Formula
While comparing Marcasite and Variscite 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 Marcasite and Variscite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Marcasite- FeS 2Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
- Chemical formula of Variscite- AlPO4 · 2(H2O)
Marcasite and Variscite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Marcasite and Variscite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Marcasite and Variscite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Marcasite is 2.42-2.58 whereas that of Variscite is 2.42-2.58.