Opal and Wavellite Physical Properties

Opal

Wavellite

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

BrittleWalter Schumann

Not Available

1.2 Solubility

hot salt water

insoluble

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

1.98-2.252.36

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

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

Uneven, Subconchoidal, UnevenArthur Thomas, Fibrous

1.6 Cleavage

None

[110] perfect, [101] good, [010] distinct

1.7 Mohs Hardness

5-6.53.5-4

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

SiO₂ · nH₂O

Al 3(PO 4) 2(OH,F) 3 · 5H 2OMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references

Opal and Wavellite Chemical Formula

While comparing Opal and Wavellite 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 Wavellite chemical formula.

Chemical formula of Opal- SiO₂ · nH₂O
Chemical formula of Wavellite- Al 3(PO 4) 2(OH,F) 3 · 5H 2OMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references

Compare Semi Precious Gemstones

Opal Vs Amethyst

Opal Vs Lehsunia

Opal Vs Alexandrite

Opal and Wavellite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Opal and Wavellite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Opal and Wavellite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Opal is 2.36 whereas that of Wavellite is 2.36.