Opal and Serpentine Physical Properties

Opal and Serpentine Chemical Formula

While comparing Opal and Serpentine 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 Serpentine chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Opal- SiO₂ · nH₂O
• Chemical formula of Serpentine- H 4Mg 3Si 2O 9Walter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references

Opal and Serpentine Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Opal and Serpentine Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Opal and Serpentine Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Opal is 2.44-2.62 whereas that of Serpentine is 2.44-2.62.