Sillimanite and Cordierite Physical Properties

Sillimanite

Cordierite

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

Tough

Brittle

1.2 Solubility

Not Available

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

3.20-3.262.57-2.66

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

Splintery

Subconchoidal, Conchoidal, Brittle

1.6 Cleavage

{010} perfect

Fair on {100}, poor on {001} and {010}

1.7 Mohs Hardness

6-7.57-7.5

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

Al 2SiO 5Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)

Mg2Al4Si5O18

Sillimanite and Cordierite Chemical Formula

While comparing Sillimanite and Cordierite 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 Cordierite chemical formula.

Chemical formula of Sillimanite- Al 2SiO 5Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)
Chemical formula of Cordierite- Mg2Al4Si5O18

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Sillimanite and Cordierite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Sillimanite and Cordierite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Sillimanite and Cordierite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Sillimanite is 2.57-2.66 whereas that of Cordierite is 2.57-2.66.