Opal and Melanite Physical Properties
Physical Properties
Tenacity
BrittleWalter Schumann
Not Available
Solubility
hot salt water
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
1.98-2.25
3.70-4.10
Fracture
Conchoidal, Conchoidal, Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references, Brittle
ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009)
Cleavage
None
Not Available
Mohs Hardness
5-6.5
6.5-7
Chemical Composition
SiO2 · nH2O
Ca 3Fe 2(SiO 4) 3Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)
Opal and Melanite Chemical Formula
While comparing Opal and Melanite 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 Melanite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Opal- SiO2 · nH2O
- Chemical formula of Melanite- Ca 3Fe 2(SiO 4) 3Arthur Thomas , Gemstones (2009)
Opal and Melanite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Opal and Melanite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Opal and Melanite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Opal is 3.70-4.10 whereas that of Melanite is 3.70-4.10.
