Nephrite and Cerussite Physical Properties
Specific Gravity
2.90-3.10
6.46-6.57
Fracture
Splintery, Granular
Uneven, ConchoidalWalter Schumann, Conchoidal
Cleavage
None
Good [110] and [021]
Mohs Hardness
6-6.5
3-3.5
Chemical Composition
Ca 2(Mg,Fe) 5(OH) 2Walter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references
PbCO 3Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Nephrite and Cerussite Chemical Formula
While comparing Nephrite and Cerussite 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 Nephrite and Cerussite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Nephrite- Ca 2(Mg,Fe) 5(OH) 2Walter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references
- Chemical formula of Cerussite- PbCO 3Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Nephrite and Cerussite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Nephrite and Cerussite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Nephrite and Cerussite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Nephrite is 6.46-6.57 whereas that of Cerussite is 6.46-6.57.