Forsterite and Opal Physical Properties

Forsterite and Opal Chemical Formula

While comparing Forsterite 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 Forsterite and Opal chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Forsterite- Mg 2SiO 4Michael O’Donoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)
• Chemical formula of Opal- SiO₂ · nH₂O

Forsterite and Opal Specific Gravity

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