Steatite and Opal Physical Properties

Steatite

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

2.20-2.801.98-2.25

1 7.18

1.5 Fracture

Not Available

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

1.6 Cleavage

Not Available

None

1.7 Mohs Hardness

Not Available5-6.5

2 10

1.8 Chemical Composition

Mg 3Si 4O 10(OH) 2Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012)

SiO₂ · nH₂O

Steatite and Opal Chemical Formula

While comparing Steatite 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 Steatite and Opal chemical formula.

Chemical formula of Steatite- Mg 3Si 4O 10(OH) 2Gemdat.org , Management Team (2012)
Chemical formula of Opal- SiO₂ · nH₂O

Compare Green Gemstones

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Steatite Vs Tortoiseshell

Steatite and Opal Specific Gravity

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