Spinel and Petalite Physical Properties
Tenacity
Not Available
Brittle
Solubility
none
insoluble
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
3.64-3.66
2.40
Fracture
Conchoidal, Uneven, ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009)
Subconchoidal, ConchoidalWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references, Brittle, Conchoidal
Cleavage
None, but may exhibit slight parting
Perfect on {001}, poor on {201} with 38.5° angle between the two
Chemical Composition
MgAl2O4
LiAlSi 4O 10Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Spinel and Petalite Chemical Formula
While comparing Spinel and Petalite 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 Petalite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Spinel- MgAl2O4
- Chemical formula of Petalite- LiAlSi 4O 10Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Spinel and Petalite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Spinel and Petalite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Spinel and Petalite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Spinel is 2.40 whereas that of Petalite is 2.40.