Opal and Phenakite Physical Properties
Tenacity
BrittleWalter Schumann
Brittle
Solubility
hot salt water
Not Available
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
1.98-2.25
2.90-2.98
Fracture
Conchoidal, Conchoidal, Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references, Brittle
Conchoidal, ConchoidalWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001), Brittle
Cleavage
None
Distinct on {11 2 0}, imperfect on {10 1 1}
Mohs Hardness
5-6.5
7.5-8
Chemical Composition
SiO2 · nH2O
Be 2SiO 4Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Opal and Phenakite Chemical Formula
While comparing Opal and Phenakite 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 Phenakite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Opal- SiO2 · nH2O
- Chemical formula of Phenakite- Be 2SiO 4Michael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Opal and Phenakite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Opal and Phenakite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Opal and Phenakite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Opal is 2.90-2.98 whereas that of Phenakite is 2.90-2.98.