Sphalerite and Smithsonite Physical Properties
Specific Gravity
3.95-4.10
4.00-4.65
Fracture
Uneven
Uneven, Sub-Conchoidal
Cleavage
{110} Perfect, {110} Perfect, {110} Perfect
Perfect on [1011]
Mohs Hardness
3.5-4
5-5.5
Chemical Composition
(Zn,Fe)SMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
ZnCO 3Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Sphalerite and Smithsonite Chemical Formula
While comparing Sphalerite and Smithsonite 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 Smithsonite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Sphalerite- (Zn,Fe)SMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
- Chemical formula of Smithsonite- ZnCO 3Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Sphalerite and Smithsonite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Sphalerite and Smithsonite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Sphalerite and Smithsonite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Sphalerite is 4.00-4.65 whereas that of Smithsonite is 4.00-4.65.