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Opal and Thomsonite Optical Properties


Thomsonite and Opal Optical Properties


Optical Properties

Luster
Vitreous, Pearly   
Vitreous, Pearly   

Pleochroism
None   
NilArthur Thomas   

Dispersion
None   
Not Available   

Transparency
Transparent, Translucent, Transparent to translucent   
Translucent   

Refractive Index
1.37-1.52   
1.510-1.550   

Optic Character
Not Available   
Not Available   

Crystal System
Trigonal   
Orthorhombic   

Birefringence
Not Available   
0.015-0.020   

Clarity
Transparent   
Translucent   

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Opal and Thomsonite Optic Character

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

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Opal and Thomsonite Transparency

Similar to their colors, Opal and Thomsonite 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.

Semi Precious

Semi Precious


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