Steatite and Moissanite Physical Properties

Steatite

Moissanite

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

Not Available

1.2 Solubility

Not Available

none

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

2.20-2.803.17-3.24

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

Not Available

Conchoidal, ConchoidalAnthony et al, Handbook of mineralogy (2001), Brittle

1.6 Cleavage

Not Available

(0001) indistinct

1.7 Mohs Hardness

Not Available9-9.5

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

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

SiCArthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)

Steatite and Moissanite Chemical Formula

While comparing Steatite and Moissanite 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 Moissanite chemical formula.

Chemical formula of Steatite- Mg 3Si 4O 10(OH) 2Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012)
Chemical formula of Moissanite- SiCArthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)

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Steatite and Moissanite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Steatite and Moissanite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Steatite and Moissanite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Steatite is 3.17-3.24 whereas that of Moissanite is 3.17-3.24.