Moissanite and Afghanite Physical Properties
Tenacity
Not Available
Not Available
Solubility
none
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
3.17-3.24
2.55-2.65
Fracture
Conchoidal, ConchoidalAnthony et al, Handbook of mineralogy (2001), Brittle
Conchoidal, ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Conchoidal, Brittle, Conchoidal, Brittle
Cleavage
(0001) indistinct
Perfect {10 1 0}
Mohs Hardness
9-9.5
5.5-6
Chemical Composition
SiCArthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)
(Na,Ca,K) 8(Si,Al) 12O 24(SO 4,Cl,CO 3) 3(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)
Moissanite and Afghanite Chemical Formula
While comparing Moissanite and Afghanite 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 Moissanite and Afghanite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Moissanite- SiCArthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)
- Chemical formula of Afghanite- (Na,Ca,K) 8(Si,Al) 12O 24(SO 4,Cl,CO 3) 3(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)
Moissanite and Afghanite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Moissanite and Afghanite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Moissanite and Afghanite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Moissanite is 2.55-2.65 whereas that of Afghanite is 2.55-2.65.