Ettringite and Opal Physical Properties

Ettringite and Opal Chemical Formula

While comparing Ettringite and 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 Ettringite and Opal chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Ettringite- Ca 6Al 2(SO 4) 3(OH) 12 26H 2OMichael O’Donoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)
• Chemical formula of Opal- SiO₂ · nH₂O

Ettringite and Opal Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Ettringite and Opal Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Ettringite and Opal Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Ettringite is 1.98-2.25 whereas that of Opal is 1.98-2.25.