Pyrite and Chalcopyrite Physical Properties
Solubility
insoluble in water
Soluble
Specific Gravity
5.00-5.20
4.1-4.3
Fracture
Uneven, Conchoidal, ConchoidalWalter Schumann
Uneven
Cleavage
Indistinct on {001}; partings on {011} and {111}
Indistinct on {011}
Mohs Hardness
6-6.5
3.5-4
Chemical Composition
FeS 2Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
CuFeS 2Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)
Pyrite and Chalcopyrite Chemical Formula
While comparing Pyrite and Chalcopyrite 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 Pyrite and Chalcopyrite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Pyrite- FeS 2Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
- Chemical formula of Chalcopyrite- CuFeS 2Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)
Pyrite and Chalcopyrite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Pyrite and Chalcopyrite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Pyrite and Chalcopyrite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Pyrite is 4.1-4.3 whereas that of Chalcopyrite is 4.1-4.3.