Opal and Nephrite Physical Properties
Tenacity
BrittleWalter Schumann
Not Available
Solubility
hot salt water
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
1.98-2.25
2.90-3.10
Fracture
Conchoidal, Conchoidal, Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references, Brittle
Splintery, Granular, Splintery, Granular, Gemstones (2009)
Cleavage
None
Not Available
Mohs Hardness
5-6.5
6-6.5
Chemical Composition
SiO2 · nH2O
Ca 2(Mg,Fe) 5(OH) 2Walter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references
Opal and Nephrite Chemical Formula
While comparing Opal and Nephrite 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 Nephrite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Opal- SiO2 · nH2O
- Chemical formula of Nephrite- Ca 2(Mg,Fe) 5(OH) 2Walter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references
Opal and Nephrite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Opal and Nephrite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Opal and Nephrite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Opal is 2.90-3.10 whereas that of Nephrite is 2.90-3.10.