Oligoclase and Sunstone Physical Properties

Oligoclase and Sunstone Chemical Formula

While comparing Oligoclase and Sunstone 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 Oligoclase and Sunstone chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Oligoclase- Na(90-70%)Ca(10-30%)(Al,Si)AlSi 2O 8Michael O’Donoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)
• Chemical formula of Sunstone- Microcline: KAlSi₃O₈ Oligoclase: (Na,Ca)Al_1-2Si_3-2O₈

Oligoclase and Sunstone Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Oligoclase and Sunstone Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Oligoclase and Sunstone Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Oligoclase is 2.62-2.65 whereas that of Sunstone is 2.62-2.65.