Steatite and Gahnite Physical Properties

Steatite and Gahnite Chemical Formula

While comparing Steatite and Gahnite 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 Gahnite chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Steatite- Mg 3Si 4O 10(OH) 2Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012)
• Chemical formula of Gahnite- ZnAl 2O 4Michael O’Donoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)

Steatite and Gahnite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Steatite and Gahnite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Steatite and Gahnite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Steatite is 4.00-4.62 whereas that of Gahnite is 4.00-4.62.