Boulder Opal and Gypsum Physical Properties

Boulder Opal

Gypsum

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

Not Available

Flexible

1.2 Solubility

Not Available

Soluble

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

1.98-2.252.20-2.40

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009)

Conchoidal, Splintery, Fibrous, UnevenArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009)

1.6 Cleavage

Not Available

Perfect on {010}, distinct on {100}

1.7 Mohs Hardness

5-6.52

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

SiO 2 + H 2OUlrich Henn and Claudio C.

CaSO 4 -2(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)

Boulder Opal and Gypsum Chemical Formula

While comparing Boulder Opal and Gypsum 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 Boulder Opal and Gypsum chemical formula.

Chemical formula of Boulder Opal- SiO 2 + H 2OUlrich Henn and Claudio C.
Chemical formula of Gypsum- CaSO 4 -2(H 2O)Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)

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Boulder Opal Vs Chrysocolla

Boulder Opal Vs Chrome Tourmaline

Boulder Opal and Gypsum Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Boulder Opal and Gypsum Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Boulder Opal and Gypsum Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Boulder Opal is 2.20-2.40 whereas that of Gypsum is 2.20-2.40.