Phenakite and Petalite Physical Properties
Solubility
Not Available
insoluble
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
2.90-2.98
2.40
Fracture
Conchoidal, ConchoidalWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001), Brittle
Subconchoidal, ConchoidalWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references, Brittle, Conchoidal
Cleavage
Distinct on {11 2 0}, imperfect on {10 1 1}
Perfect on {001}, poor on {201} with 38.5° angle between the two
Mohs Hardness
7.5-8
6-6.5
Chemical Composition
Be 2SiO 4Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
LiAlSi 4O 10Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Phenakite and Petalite Chemical Formula
While comparing Phenakite and Petalite 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 Phenakite and Petalite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Phenakite- Be 2SiO 4Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
- Chemical formula of Petalite- LiAlSi 4O 10Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Phenakite and Petalite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Phenakite and Petalite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Phenakite and Petalite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Phenakite is 2.40 whereas that of Petalite is 2.40.