Caledonite and Wax Opal Physical Properties
Tenacity
Brittle
Not Available
Solubility
Not Available
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
5.6-5.76
1.98-2.50
Fracture
Uneven, UnevenAnthony et al, Handbook of mineralogy (2001)
ConchoidalWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001), ConchoidalWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001)
Cleavage
[001] perfect; [100] distinct
Not Available
Mohs Hardness
2.5-3
5.5-6.5
Chemical Composition
Pb 5Cu 2(SO 4) 3(CO 3)(OH) 6Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)
SiO 2 · nH 2OWalter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001)
Caledonite and Wax Opal Chemical Formula
While comparing Caledonite and Wax 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 Caledonite and Wax Opal chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Caledonite- Pb 5Cu 2(SO 4) 3(CO 3)(OH) 6Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)
- Chemical formula of Wax Opal- SiO 2 · nH 2OWalter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001)
Caledonite and Wax Opal Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Caledonite and Wax Opal Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Caledonite and Wax Opal Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Caledonite is 1.98-2.50 whereas that of Wax Opal is 1.98-2.50.