Petalite and Prehnite Physical Properties
Solubility
insoluble
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
2.40
2.80-2.95
Fracture
Subconchoidal, ConchoidalWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references, Brittle, Conchoidal
Uneven, Yellow, White, UnevenWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references, Brittle, Metallic
Cleavage
Perfect on {001}, poor on {201} with 38.5° angle between the two
Distinct on [001]
Mohs Hardness
6-6.5
6-6.5
Chemical Composition
LiAlSi 4O 10Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Ca2Al2Si3O12(OH)
Petalite and Prehnite Chemical Formula
While comparing Petalite and Prehnite 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 Prehnite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Petalite- LiAlSi 4O 10Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
- Chemical formula of Prehnite- Ca2Al2Si3O12(OH)
Petalite and Prehnite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Petalite and Prehnite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Petalite and Prehnite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Petalite is 2.80-2.95 whereas that of Prehnite is 2.80-2.95.