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Opal and Aragonite Physical Properties


Aragonite and Opal Physical Properties


Physical Properties

Tenacity
BrittleWalter Schumann  
Brittle  

Solubility
hot salt water  
Dilute acid  

Durability
-  
-  

Specific Gravity
1.98-2.25  
2.93-2.96  

Fracture
Conchoidal  
Subconchoidal, Conchoidal  

Cleavage
None  
Distinct on {010}, imperfect {110} and {011}  

Mohs Hardness
5-6.5  
3.5-4  

Chemical Composition
SiO2 · nH2O  
CaCO 3Michael O’Donoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references  

Optical Properties >>
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Opal and Aragonite Chemical Formula

While comparing Opal and Aragonite 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 Aragonite chemical formula.

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Opal and Aragonite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Opal and Aragonite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Opal and Aragonite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Opal is 2.93-2.96 whereas that of Aragonite is 2.93-2.96.

Semi Precious Gemstones

Semi Precious Gemstones


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