Spinel and Afghanite Physical Properties
Tenacity
Not Available
Not Available
Solubility
none
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
3.64-3.66
2.55-2.65
Fracture
Conchoidal, Uneven, ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009)
Conchoidal, ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Conchoidal, Brittle, Conchoidal, Brittle
Cleavage
None, but may exhibit slight parting
Perfect {10 1 0}
Chemical Composition
MgAl2O4
(Na,Ca,K) 8(Si,Al) 12O 24(SO 4,Cl,CO 3) 3(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)
Spinel and Afghanite Chemical Formula
While comparing Spinel and Afghanite 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 Spinel and Afghanite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Spinel- MgAl2O4
- Chemical formula of Afghanite- (Na,Ca,K) 8(Si,Al) 12O 24(SO 4,Cl,CO 3) 3(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)
Spinel and Afghanite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Spinel and Afghanite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Spinel and Afghanite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Spinel is 2.55-2.65 whereas that of Afghanite is 2.55-2.65.