Opal and Diaspore Physical Properties
Physical Properties
Tenacity
BrittleWalter Schumann
Very brittle
Solubility
hot salt water
insoluble
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
1.98-2.25
3.30-3.40
Fracture
Conchoidal, Conchoidal, Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references, Brittle
Conchoidal, Brittle, Conchoidal
Cleavage
None
{010} perfect, {110} distinct, {100} in traces
Mohs Hardness
5-6.5
6.5-7
Chemical Composition
SiO2 · nH2O
AlO(OH)Walter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references
Opal and Diaspore Chemical Formula
While comparing Opal and Diaspore 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 Diaspore chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Opal- SiO2 · nH2O
- Chemical formula of Diaspore- AlO(OH)Walter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references
Opal and Diaspore Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Opal and Diaspore Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Opal and Diaspore Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Opal is 3.30-3.40 whereas that of Diaspore is 3.30-3.40.
