Opal and Nephrite Optical Properties

Opal

Nephrite

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1 Optical Properties

1.1 Luster

Vitreous, Pearly

Vitreous, Greasy

1.2 Pleochroism

None

1.3 Dispersion

NoneNA

0.007 1

1.4 Transparency

Transparent, Translucent, Transparent to translucent

Translucent

1.5 Refractive Index

1.37-1.521.600-1.627

1 3.25

1.6 Optic Character

Not Available

1.7 Crystal System

Trigonal

monoclinic

1.8 Birefringence

Not Available0.027

0 0.296

1.9 Clarity

Transparent

Translucent

Opal and Nephrite Optic Character

Opal and Nephrite optical properties play a significant role while distinguishing these gemstones from each other. These properties are influenced by the Opal and Nephrite 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 Nephrite 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.

Compare Semi Precious Gemstones

Opal Vs Amethyst

Opal Vs Lehsunia

Opal Vs Alexandrite

Opal and Nephrite Transparency

Similar to their colors, Opal and Nephrite 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.