Spinel and Forsterite Physical Properties
Tenacity
Not Available
Not Available
Solubility
none
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
3.64-3.66
3.23-3.26
Fracture
Conchoidal, Uneven, ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009)
Conchoidal, ConchoidalAnthony et al, Handbook of mineralogy (2001), Conchoidal, Brittle
Cleavage
None, but may exhibit slight parting
Perfect on {010} imperfect on {100}
Chemical Composition
MgAl2O4
Mg 2SiO 4Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)
Spinel and Forsterite Chemical Formula
While comparing Spinel and Forsterite 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 Forsterite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Spinel- MgAl2O4
- Chemical formula of Forsterite- Mg 2SiO 4Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)
Spinel and Forsterite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Spinel and Forsterite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Spinel and Forsterite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Spinel is 3.23-3.26 whereas that of Forsterite is 3.23-3.26.