Rhodochrosite and Marcasite Physical Properties
Tenacity
Brittle
Not Available
Solubility
Not Available
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
3.0-3.3
4.80-4.90
Fracture
Uneven, Conchoidal, Conchoidal to uneven, Brittle
UnevenArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), UnevenArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Uneven
Cleavage
On {10 1 1} perfect; parting on {10 1 2}
{010} Indistinct
Mohs Hardness
3.5-4
6-6.5
Chemical Composition
MnCO3
FeS 2Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Rhodochrosite and Marcasite Chemical Formula
While comparing Rhodochrosite and Marcasite 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 Marcasite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Rhodochrosite- MnCO3
- Chemical formula of Marcasite- FeS 2Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Rhodochrosite and Marcasite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Rhodochrosite and Marcasite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Rhodochrosite and Marcasite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Rhodochrosite is 4.80-4.90 whereas that of Marcasite is 4.80-4.90.