Sillimanite and Afghanite Physical Properties
Tenacity
Tough
Not Available
Solubility
Not Available
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
3.20-3.26
2.55-2.65
Fracture
Splintery
Conchoidal, ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Conchoidal, Brittle, Conchoidal, Brittle
Cleavage
{010} perfect
Perfect {10 1 0}
Mohs Hardness
6-7.5
5.5-6
Chemical Composition
Al 2SiO 5Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)
(Na,Ca,K) 8(Si,Al) 12O 24(SO 4,Cl,CO 3) 3(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)
Sillimanite and Afghanite Chemical Formula
While comparing Sillimanite 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 Sillimanite and Afghanite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Sillimanite- Al 2SiO 5Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)
- Chemical formula of Afghanite- (Na,Ca,K) 8(Si,Al) 12O 24(SO 4,Cl,CO 3) 3(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)
Sillimanite and Afghanite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Sillimanite and Afghanite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Sillimanite and Afghanite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Sillimanite is 2.55-2.65 whereas that of Afghanite is 2.55-2.65.