Nephrite and Phenakite Physical Properties
Specific Gravity
2.90-3.10
2.90-2.98
Fracture
Splintery, Granular
Conchoidal, ConchoidalWalter Schumann
Cleavage
None
Distinct on {11 2 0}, imperfect on {10 1 1}
Mohs Hardness
6-6.5
7.5-8
Chemical Composition
Ca 2(Mg,Fe) 5(OH) 2Walter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references
Be 2SiO 4Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Nephrite and Phenakite Chemical Formula
While comparing Nephrite and Phenakite 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 Phenakite 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 Phenakite- Be 2SiO 4Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Nephrite and Phenakite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Nephrite and Phenakite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Nephrite and Phenakite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Nephrite is 2.90-2.98 whereas that of Phenakite is 2.90-2.98.