Steatite and Cordierite Physical Properties

Steatite

Cordierite

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

Not Available

Brittle

1.2 Solubility

Not Available

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

2.20-2.802.57-2.66

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

Not Available

Subconchoidal, Conchoidal, Brittle

1.6 Cleavage

Not Available

Fair on {100}, poor on {001} and {010}

1.7 Mohs Hardness

Not Available7-7.5

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

Mg 3Si 4O 10(OH) 2Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012)

Mg2Al4Si5O18

Steatite and Cordierite Chemical Formula

While comparing Steatite and Cordierite 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 Steatite and Cordierite chemical formula.

Chemical formula of Steatite- Mg 3Si 4O 10(OH) 2Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012)
Chemical formula of Cordierite- Mg2Al4Si5O18

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Steatite and Cordierite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Steatite and Cordierite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Steatite and Cordierite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Steatite is 2.57-2.66 whereas that of Cordierite is 2.57-2.66.