Rhodochrosite and Witherite Physical Properties
Tenacity
Brittle
Not Available
Solubility
Not Available
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
3.0-3.3
4.27-4.35
Fracture
Uneven, Conchoidal, Conchoidal to uneven, Brittle
UnevenArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), UnevenArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Conchoidal, Brittle
Cleavage
On {10 1 1} perfect; parting on {10 1 2}
{010} Distinct
Mohs Hardness
3.5-4
3-3.5
Chemical Composition
MnCO3
BaCO 3Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Rhodochrosite and Witherite Chemical Formula
While comparing Rhodochrosite and Witherite 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 Witherite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Rhodochrosite- MnCO3
- Chemical formula of Witherite- BaCO 3Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Rhodochrosite and Witherite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Rhodochrosite and Witherite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Rhodochrosite and Witherite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Rhodochrosite is 4.27-4.35 whereas that of Witherite is 4.27-4.35.