Opal and Wavellite Physical Properties
Tenacity
BrittleWalter Schumann
Not Available
Solubility
hot salt water
insoluble
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
1.98-2.25
2.36
Fracture
Conchoidal, Conchoidal, Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references, Brittle
Uneven, Subconchoidal, UnevenArthur Thomas, Fibrous
Cleavage
None
[110] perfect, [101] good, [010] distinct
Mohs Hardness
5-6.5
3.5-4
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
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.