Black Opal and Steatite Physical Properties

Black Opal and Steatite Chemical Formula

While comparing Black Opal and Steatite 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 Black Opal and Steatite chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Black Opal- SiO 2 + H 2OUlrich Henn and Claudio C.
• Chemical formula of Steatite- Mg 3Si 4O 10(OH) 2Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012)

Black Opal and Steatite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Black Opal and Steatite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Black Opal and Steatite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Black Opal is 2.20-2.80 whereas that of Steatite is 2.20-2.80.