Alabaster and Opal Physical Properties

Alabaster and Opal Chemical Formula

While comparing Alabaster and Opal 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 Alabaster and Opal chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Alabaster- CaSO 4 · 2H 2OWalter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001)
• Chemical formula of Opal- SiO₂ · nH₂O

Alabaster and Opal Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Alabaster and Opal Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Alabaster and Opal Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Alabaster is 1.98-2.25 whereas that of Opal is 1.98-2.25.