Sphalerite and Opal Physical Properties

Sphalerite

Opal

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1 Physical Properties

1.1 Tenacity

Not Available

BrittleWalter Schumann

1.2 Solubility

Not Available

hot salt water

1.3 Durability

Not Available

1.4 Specific Gravity

3.95-4.101.98-2.25

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

UnevenWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references, UnevenWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references, Uneven

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

1.6 Cleavage

{110} Perfect, {110} Perfect, {110} Perfect

None

1.7 Mohs Hardness

3.5-45-6.5

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

(Zn,Fe)SMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references

SiO₂ · nH₂O

Sphalerite and Opal Chemical Formula

While comparing Sphalerite and 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 Sphalerite and Opal chemical formula.

Chemical formula of Sphalerite- (Zn,Fe)SMichael OâDonoghue , Gems, Sixth Edition (2006) More from other references
Chemical formula of Opal- SiO₂ · nH₂O

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Sphalerite and Opal Specific Gravity

Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Sphalerite and Opal Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Sphalerite and Opal Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Sphalerite is 1.98-2.25 whereas that of Opal is 1.98-2.25.