Opal and Alabaster Physical Properties

Opal and Alabaster Chemical Formula

While comparing Opal and Alabaster 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 Opal and Alabaster chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Opal- SiO₂ · nH₂O
• Chemical formula of Alabaster- CaSO 4 · 2H 2OWalter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001)

Opal and Alabaster Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Opal and Alabaster Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Opal and Alabaster Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Opal is 2.30 whereas that of Alabaster is 2.30.