Opal and Periclase Physical Properties

Opal

Periclase

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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

1.98-2.253.7-3.9

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

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

Conchoidal, Brittle

1.6 Cleavage

None

{001} perfect; {111} imperfect, may exhibit parting on , {011}

1.7 Mohs Hardness

5-6.55.5-6

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

SiO₂ · nH₂O

MgOMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)

Opal and Periclase Chemical Formula

While comparing Opal and Periclase 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 Periclase chemical formula.

Chemical formula of Opal- SiO₂ · nH₂O
Chemical formula of Periclase- MgOMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006)

Compare Semi Precious Gemstones

Opal Vs Amethyst

Opal Vs Lehsunia

Opal Vs Alexandrite

Opal and Periclase Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Opal and Periclase Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Opal and Periclase Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Opal is 3.7-3.9 whereas that of Periclase is 3.7-3.9.