Opal and Wood Opal Physical Properties

Opal and Wood Opal Chemical Formula

While comparing Opal and Wood Opal 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 Wood Opal chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Opal- SiO₂ · nH₂O
• Chemical formula of Wood Opal- SiO 2 · nH 2OWalter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001)

Opal and Wood Opal Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Opal and Wood Opal Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Opal and Wood Opal Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Opal is 1.98-2.50 whereas that of Wood Opal is 1.98-2.50.