Opal and Humite Physical Properties
Tenacity
BrittleWalter Schumann
Brittle
Solubility
hot salt water
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
1.98-2.25
3.20-3.32
Fracture
Conchoidal, Conchoidal, Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references, Brittle
Uneven, Uneven, ConchoidalAnthony et al, Handbook of mineralogy (2001), Conchoidal
Mohs Hardness
5-6.5
6-6.5
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)
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.