Whitlockite and Astrophyllite Physical Properties

Whitlockite and Astrophyllite Chemical Formula

While comparing Whitlockite and Astrophyllite 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 Whitlockite and Astrophyllite chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Whitlockite- Ca 9(Mg,Fe2+ )(PO 4) 6(PO 3OH)Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)
• Chemical formula of Astrophyllite- (K,Na) 3(Fe2+ ,Mn) 7Ti 2Si 8O 24(O,OH) 7Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)

Whitlockite and Astrophyllite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Whitlockite and Astrophyllite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Whitlockite and Astrophyllite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Whitlockite is 3.2-3.4 whereas that of Astrophyllite is 3.2-3.4.