Opal and Smithsonite Optical Properties

Opal

Smithsonite

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1 Optical Properties

1.1 Luster

Vitreous, Pearly

1.2 Pleochroism

None

AbsentWalter Schumann

1.3 Dispersion

None0.01

0.007 1

1.4 Transparency

Transparent, Translucent, Transparent to translucent

Translucent

1.5 Refractive Index

1.37-1.521.620-1.850

1 3.25

1.6 Optic Character

Not Available

1.7 Crystal System

Trigonal

1.8 Birefringence

Not Available0.223-0.227

0 0.296

1.9 Clarity

Transparent

Translucent

Opal and Smithsonite Optic Character

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

Opal Vs Lehsunia

Opal Vs Amethyst

Opal and Smithsonite Transparency

Similar to their colors, Opal and Smithsonite 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.