Petalite and Nephrite Physical Properties

Petalite and Nephrite Chemical Formula

While comparing Petalite and Nephrite 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 Petalite and Nephrite chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Petalite- LiAlSi 4O 10Michael O’Donoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
• Chemical formula of Nephrite- Ca 2(Mg,Fe) 5(OH) 2Walter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references

Petalite and Nephrite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Petalite and Nephrite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Petalite and Nephrite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Petalite is 2.90-3.10 whereas that of Nephrite is 2.90-3.10.