Boulder Opal and Gypsum Physical Properties
Tenacity
Not Available
Flexible
Solubility
Not Available
Soluble
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
1.98-2.25
2.20-2.40
Fracture
ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009)
Conchoidal, Splintery, Fibrous, UnevenArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009)
Cleavage
Not Available
Perfect on {010}, distinct on {100}
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)
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.