Sphalerite and Richterite Physical Properties

Sphalerite and Richterite Chemical Formula

While comparing Sphalerite and Richterite 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 Richterite chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Sphalerite- (Zn,Fe)SMichael O’Donoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
• Chemical formula of Richterite- Na(CaNa)(Mg,Fe++)5(Si8O22)(OH)2

Sphalerite and Richterite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Sphalerite and Richterite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Sphalerite and Richterite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Sphalerite is 3.0-3.5 whereas that of Richterite is 3.0-3.5.