Opal and Steatite Physical Properties

Opal

Steatite

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

BrittleWalter Schumann

Not Available

1.2 Solubility

hot salt water

Not Available

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

1.98-2.252.20-2.80

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

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

Not Available

1.6 Cleavage

None

Not Available

1.7 Mohs Hardness

5-6.5Not Available

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

SiO₂ · nH₂O

Mg 3Si 4O 10(OH) 2Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012)

Opal and Steatite Chemical Formula

While comparing Opal and Steatite 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 Steatite chemical formula.

Chemical formula of Opal- SiO₂ · nH₂O
Chemical formula of Steatite- Mg 3Si 4O 10(OH) 2Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012)

Compare Semi Precious Gemstones

Opal Vs Lehsunia

Opal Vs Alexandrite

Opal Vs Amethyst

Opal and Steatite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Opal and Steatite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Opal and Steatite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Opal is 2.20-2.80 whereas that of Steatite is 2.20-2.80.