Pyrophyllite and Nephrite Physical Properties

Pyrophyllite and Nephrite Chemical Formula

While comparing Pyrophyllite 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 Pyrophyllite and Nephrite chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Pyrophyllite- Al 2Si 4O 10(OH) 2Michael 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

Pyrophyllite and Nephrite Specific Gravity

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