Sphalerite and Chalcopyrite Physical Properties

Sphalerite and Chalcopyrite Chemical Formula

While comparing Sphalerite and Chalcopyrite 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 Chalcopyrite chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Sphalerite- (Zn,Fe)SMichael O’Donoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
• Chemical formula of Chalcopyrite- CuFeS 2Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)

Sphalerite and Chalcopyrite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Sphalerite and Chalcopyrite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Sphalerite and Chalcopyrite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Sphalerite is 4.1-4.3 whereas that of Chalcopyrite is 4.1-4.3.