Sphalerite and Aragonite Physical Properties
Specific Gravity
3.95-4.10
2.93-2.96
Fracture
Uneven
Subconchoidal, Conchoidal
Cleavage
{110} Perfect, {110} Perfect, {110} Perfect
Distinct on {010}, imperfect {110} and {011}
Mohs Hardness
3.5-4
3.5-4
Chemical Composition
(Zn,Fe)SMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
CaCO 3Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Sphalerite and Aragonite Chemical Formula
While comparing Sphalerite and Aragonite 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 Sphalerite and Aragonite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Sphalerite- (Zn,Fe)SMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
- Chemical formula of Aragonite- CaCO 3Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Sphalerite and Aragonite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Sphalerite and Aragonite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Sphalerite and Aragonite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Sphalerite is 2.93-2.96 whereas that of Aragonite is 2.93-2.96.