Common Opal and Marcasite Physical Properties
Tenacity
Not Available
Not Available
Solubility
Not Available
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
1.98-2.50
4.80-4.90
Fracture
Conchoidal, Conchoidal, Gemstones of the world (2001)
UnevenArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), UnevenArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Uneven
Cleavage
Not Available
{010} Indistinct
Mohs Hardness
5.5-6.5
6-6.5
Chemical Composition
SiO 2 · nH 2OWalter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001)
FeS 2Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Common Opal and Marcasite Chemical Formula
While comparing Common Opal and Marcasite 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 Common Opal and Marcasite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Common Opal- SiO 2 · nH 2OWalter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001)
- Chemical formula of Marcasite- FeS 2Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Common Opal and Marcasite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Common Opal and Marcasite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Common Opal and Marcasite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Common Opal is 4.80-4.90 whereas that of Marcasite is 4.80-4.90.