Steatite and Rhodochrosite Physical Properties

Steatite

Rhodochrosite

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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

2.20-2.803.0-3.3

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

Not Available

Uneven, Conchoidal, Conchoidal to uneven, Brittle

1.6 Cleavage

Not Available

On {10 1 1} perfect; parting on {10 1 2}

1.7 Mohs Hardness

Not Available3.5-4

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

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

MnCO₃

Steatite and Rhodochrosite Chemical Formula

While comparing Steatite and Rhodochrosite 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 Rhodochrosite chemical formula.

Chemical formula of Steatite- Mg 3Si 4O 10(OH) 2Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012)
Chemical formula of Rhodochrosite- MnCO₃

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Steatite and Rhodochrosite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Steatite and Rhodochrosite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Steatite and Rhodochrosite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Steatite is 3.0-3.3 whereas that of Rhodochrosite is 3.0-3.3.