Rhodochrosite and Afghanite Physical Properties
Tenacity
Brittle
Not Available
Solubility
Not Available
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
3.0-3.3
2.55-2.65
Fracture
Uneven, Conchoidal, Conchoidal to uneven, Brittle
Conchoidal, ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Conchoidal, Brittle, Conchoidal, Brittle
Cleavage
On {10 1 1} perfect; parting on {10 1 2}
Perfect {10 1 0}
Mohs Hardness
3.5-4
5.5-6
Chemical Composition
MnCO3
(Na,Ca,K) 8(Si,Al) 12O 24(SO 4,Cl,CO 3) 3(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)
Rhodochrosite and Afghanite Chemical Formula
While comparing Rhodochrosite and Afghanite 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 Rhodochrosite and Afghanite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Rhodochrosite- MnCO3
- Chemical formula of Afghanite- (Na,Ca,K) 8(Si,Al) 12O 24(SO 4,Cl,CO 3) 3(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)
Rhodochrosite and Afghanite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Rhodochrosite and Afghanite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Rhodochrosite and Afghanite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Rhodochrosite is 2.55-2.65 whereas that of Afghanite is 2.55-2.65.