Sunstone and Richterite Physical Properties

Sunstone and Richterite Chemical Formula

While comparing Sunstone and Richterite 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 Richterite chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Sunstone- Microcline: KAlSi₃O₈ Oligoclase: (Na,Ca)Al_1-2Si_3-2O₈
• Chemical formula of Richterite- Na(CaNa)(Mg,Fe++)5(Si8O22)(OH)2

Sunstone and Richterite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Sunstone and Richterite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Sunstone and Richterite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Sunstone is 3.0-3.5 whereas that of Richterite is 3.0-3.5.