Common Opal and Variscite Physical Properties
Tenacity
Not Available
Not Available
Solubility
Not Available
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
1.98-2.50
2.42-2.58
Fracture
Conchoidal, Conchoidal, Gemstones of the world (2001)
Conchoidal, Splintery, ConchoidalWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references, Brittle
Cleavage
Not Available
[010] perfect
Mohs Hardness
5.5-6.5
4-5
Chemical Composition
SiO 2 · nH 2OWalter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001)
AlPO4 · 2(H2O)
Common Opal and Variscite Chemical Formula
While comparing Common Opal and Variscite 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 Variscite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Common Opal- SiO 2 · nH 2OWalter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001)
- Chemical formula of Variscite- AlPO4 · 2(H2O)
Common Opal and Variscite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Common Opal and Variscite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Common Opal and Variscite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Common Opal is 2.42-2.58 whereas that of Variscite is 2.42-2.58.