Steatite and Melanite Physical Properties

Steatite and Melanite Chemical Formula

While comparing Steatite and Melanite 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 Melanite chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Steatite- Mg 3Si 4O 10(OH) 2Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012)
• Chemical formula of Melanite- Ca 3Fe 2(SiO 4) 3Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)

Steatite and Melanite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Steatite and Melanite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Steatite and Melanite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Steatite is 3.70-4.10 whereas that of Melanite is 3.70-4.10.