Nephrite and Wavellite Physical Properties
Specific Gravity
2.90-3.10
2.36
Fracture
Splintery, Granular
Uneven, Subconchoidal, Fibrous
Cleavage
None
[110] perfect, [101] good, [010] distinct
Mohs Hardness
6-6.5
3.5-4
Chemical Composition
Ca 2(Mg,Fe) 5(OH) 2Walter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references
Al 3(PO 4) 2(OH,F) 3 · 5H 2OMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Nephrite and Wavellite Chemical Formula
While comparing Nephrite and Wavellite 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 Wavellite 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 Wavellite- Al 3(PO 4) 2(OH,F) 3 · 5H 2OMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Nephrite and Wavellite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Nephrite and Wavellite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Nephrite and Wavellite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Nephrite is 2.36 whereas that of Wavellite is 2.36.