Periclase and Steatite Physical Properties
Tenacity
Brittle
  
Not Available
  
Solubility
Not Available
  
Not Available
  
Durability
Not Available
  
Not Available
  
Specific Gravity
3.7-3.9
  
2.20-2.80
  
Fracture
Conchoidal, Brittle
  
Not Available
  
Cleavage
{001} perfect; {111} imperfect, may exhibit parting on , {011}
  
Not Available
  
Mohs Hardness
5.5-6
  
Not Available
  
Chemical Composition
MgOMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)
  
Mg 3Si 4O 10(OH) 2Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012)
  
Periclase and Steatite Chemical Formula
While comparing Periclase and Steatite 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 Steatite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Periclase- MgOMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)
- Chemical formula of Steatite- Mg 3Si 4O 10(OH) 2Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012)
Periclase and Steatite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Periclase and Steatite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Periclase and Steatite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Periclase is 2.20-2.80 whereas that of Steatite is 2.20-2.80.