Sunstone and Afghanite Physical Properties

Sunstone and Afghanite Chemical Formula

While comparing Sunstone and Afghanite 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 Sunstone and Afghanite chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Sunstone- Microcline: KAlSi₃O₈ Oligoclase: (Na,Ca)Al_1-2Si_3-2O₈
• Chemical formula of Afghanite- (Na,Ca,K) 8(Si,Al) 12O 24(SO 4,Cl,CO 3) 3(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)

Sunstone and Afghanite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Sunstone and Afghanite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Sunstone and Afghanite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Sunstone is 2.55-2.65 whereas that of Afghanite is 2.55-2.65.