Opal and Humite Physical Properties

Opal

Humite

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

BrittleWalter Schumann

Brittle

1.2 Solubility

hot salt water

Not Available

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

1.98-2.253.20-3.32

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

Conchoidal, Conchoidal, Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references, Brittle

Uneven, Uneven, ConchoidalAnthony et al, Handbook of mineralogy (2001), Conchoidal

1.6 Cleavage

None

Poor

1.7 Mohs Hardness

5-6.56-6.5

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

SiO₂ · nH₂O

(Mg,Fe2+ ) 7(SiO 4) 3(F,OH) 2Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)

Opal and Humite Chemical Formula

While comparing Opal and Humite 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 Humite chemical formula.

Chemical formula of Opal- SiO₂ · nH₂O
Chemical formula of Humite- (Mg,Fe2+ ) 7(SiO 4) 3(F,OH) 2Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)

Compare Semi Precious Gemstones

Opal Vs Amethyst

Opal Vs Lehsunia

Opal Vs Alexandrite

Opal and Humite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Opal and Humite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Opal and Humite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Opal is 3.20-3.32 whereas that of Humite is 3.20-3.32.