Spinel and Elbaite Physical Properties
Tenacity
Not Available
Not Available
Solubility
none
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
3.64-3.66
2.90-3.10
Fracture
Conchoidal, Uneven, ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009)
Uneven, Conchoidal, Brittle, Uneven, ConchoidalAnthony et al, Handbook of mineralogy (2001), Conchoidal, Brittle
Cleavage
None, but may exhibit slight parting
Poor/indistinct on {1120} and {1011}
Chemical Composition
MgAl2O4
Na(Li 1.5Al 1.5)Al 6(Si 6O 18)(BO 3) 3(OH) 3(OH)Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012) More from other references
Spinel and Elbaite Chemical Formula
While comparing Spinel and Elbaite 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 Elbaite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Spinel- MgAl2O4
- Chemical formula of Elbaite- Na(Li 1.5Al 1.5)Al 6(Si 6O 18)(BO 3) 3(OH) 3(OH)Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012) More from other references
Spinel and Elbaite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Spinel and Elbaite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Spinel and Elbaite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Spinel is 2.90-3.10 whereas that of Elbaite is 2.90-3.10.