Precious Opal and Wax Opal Physical Properties

Precious Opal and Wax Opal Chemical Formula

While comparing Precious Opal and Wax 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 Precious Opal and Wax Opal chemical formula.

• Chemical formula of Precious Opal- SiO 2 · nH 2OGemdat.org , Management Team (2012)
• Chemical formula of Wax Opal- SiO 2 · nH 2OWalter Schumann , Gemstones of the world (2001)

Precious Opal and Wax Opal Specific Gravity

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