Opal and Whitlockite Physical Properties

Opal and Whitlockite Chemical Formula

While comparing Opal and Whitlockite 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 Whitlockite chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Opal- SiO₂ · nH₂O
• Chemical formula of Whitlockite- Ca 9(Mg,Fe2+ )(PO 4) 6(PO 3OH)Anthony et al , Handbook of mineralogy (2001)

Opal and Whitlockite Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Opal and Whitlockite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Opal and Whitlockite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Opal is 3.12 whereas that of Whitlockite is 3.12.