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Opal and Holmquistite Optical Properties


Holmquistite and Opal Optical Properties


Optical Properties

Luster
Vitreous, Pearly   
Vitreous   

Pleochroism
None   
Strong in shades of violet when dark-colored.Anthony et al   

Dispersion
None   
Not Available   

Transparency
Transparent, Translucent, Transparent to translucent   
Transparent   

Refractive Index
1.37-1.52   
1.622-1.666   

Optic Character
Not Available   
Not Available   

Crystal System
Trigonal   
Orthorhombic Dipyramidal H-M Symbol (2/m 2/m 2/m) Space Group: P nma   

Birefringence
Not Available   
Not Available   

Clarity
Transparent   
Transparent   

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Opal and Holmquistite Optic Character

Opal and Holmquistite optical properties play a significant role while distinguishing these gemstones from each other. These properties are influenced by the Opal and Holmquistite Physical Properties like crystallographic symmetry, pleochroism,etc. in the crystal. Some of the optical properties are refractive index, luster, optic character, pleochroism etc. Prominent among these is Opal and Holmquistite optic character. You might have noticed your gemologist rotating the gemstone while testing it. Rotating a gemstone along its optic axis helps in determining its optic character.

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Opal and Holmquistite Transparency

Similar to their colors, Opal and Holmquistite transparency can also be used as criteria for their primary identification. Although transparency cannot be the only criteria for gemstone identification, it can efficiently used in gemstone grading. Talking about their transparency, Opal is Translucent, Transparent and Transparent to translucent while Opal is Translucent, Transparent and Transparent to translucent in appearance.

Semi Precious

Semi Precious


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