Periclase and Spinel Physical Properties
Tenacity
Brittle
  
Not Available
  
Solubility
Not Available
  
none
  
Durability
Not Available
  
Not Available
  
Specific Gravity
3.7-3.9
  
3.64-3.66
  
Fracture
Conchoidal, Brittle
  
Conchoidal, Uneven, ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009)
  
Cleavage
{001} perfect; {111} imperfect, may exhibit parting on , {011}
  
None, but may exhibit slight parting
  
Mohs Hardness
5.5-6
  
8
  
Chemical Composition
MgOMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)
  
MgAl2O4
  
Periclase and Spinel Chemical Formula
While comparing Periclase and Spinel 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 Periclase and Spinel chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Periclase- MgOMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)
- Chemical formula of Spinel- MgAl2O4
Periclase and Spinel Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Periclase and Spinel Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Periclase and Spinel Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Periclase is 3.64-3.66 whereas that of Spinel is 3.64-3.66.