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Opal is not classified as a true crystal; instead, it is a mineraloid. Unlike crystals, which have a defined and ordered atomic structure, opal has a more irregular arrangement of silica spheres. This unique structure contributes to its characteristic play-of-color, making opal a popular gemstone despite its non-crystalline nature.
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Is opal quartz?
No, opal is not quartz. While both are considered silicate minerals, opal is a mineraloid that lacks a crystalline structure, whereas quartz is a crystalline mineral with a defined chemical composition of silicon dioxide (SiO2). Opal is primarily composed of hydrated silica and can form in various colors and patterns, making it distinct from quartz.
If my date is wearing an opal bracelet and says it is her zodiac stone then what is her sign?
You're date is most likely a scorpio. Scorpio's main gemstone is Topaz, but others include Opal, Beryl, Amethyst, Aquamarine, and Tourmaline. Opal is most common of them.
What is the specific gravity of the opal?
The specific gravity of opal typically ranges from about 1.98 to 2.20, depending on its water content and composition. This variation is due to the presence of silica and water within the opal structure. Opal's unique properties, including its play-of-color, can also influence its specific gravity slightly. Overall, it is generally lower than that of many other gemstones.
Is opal valuable?
Ther is no set answer to this question. Each opal is unique and has its own value. From colorless opal to the most prized fire opal it depends on the size and color. A good place to get the idea of the value of opal is to go to ebay and type in opals. You will see prices from a few dollars to over 50,000 dollars.
What is the streak of a opal?
The streak of an opal is typically colorless due to its amorphous structure. It doesn't leave a visible streak on a streak plate like some other minerals do.
What type of crystal structure does the opal have?
Opal has an amorphous or non-crystalline structure, meaning it lacks a repeating atomic arrangement like that found in crystals. Instead, opal is made up of tiny silica spheres arranged in a disordered pattern, which gives it its beautiful color play known as "play-of-color."
What crystal group is opal?
Some think it is in the quartz group.
What are Name of nine jewels?
diamond,saphire,opal,crystal,Amber,Amethyst ,ruby, jade and Crystal
Are there different kinds of opal?
The types of Opal that i am familiar with are White Opal, Fire Opal, Boulder Opal, Black Opal, Crystal Opal, Light Opal, Doublet Opal, Triplet Opal, Common Opal, Synthetic Opal, and Immitation Opal.
What is the opals crystals system?
Opal, being amorphous, is not really a mineral but a mineraloid. One of the scientifically accepted standards defining a mineral is that a mineral must have a crystal structure, which opal lacks. Many scientific groups and references, including the acclaimed Dana's System of Mineralogy, categorize Opal together with the "true" minerals. For this reason, Opal -- as well as other amorphous types that fall under the definition of a mineraloid.
Is a man-made crystal a mineral?
The majority of minerals are crystalline materials.Examples: opal, halite, topaz.
Is an opal birthstone cleavage or fracture?
Opal is known for its cleavage, which is the tendency of the stone to break along certain planes due to its crystal structure. This can give opal a characteristic pattern of fractures or cleavage surfaces when it is damaged or cut.
What is the Texture of an Opal Mineral?
Opal is an amorphous mineral, which means it lacks a true crystal structure. It typically exhibits a smooth, glassy texture. Opal can also display a unique play-of-color caused by the diffraction of light, giving it a vibrant and iridescent appearance.
What is opal the rockmade out of?
Opal is a hydrated, amorphous form of silica, ie sand. Silicon Dioxide, SiO2. Rather than a crystal formation, opal consists of tiny, tightly packed spheres of SiO2, with 3% to 20% of the mineral's weight as molecular water trapped amongst them.
Do opal and crystal grow together?
Opal and crystal do not typically grow together, as they form under different geological conditions. Opal is a mineraloid formed from silica gel that fills cavities or spaces in rocks, while crystals, like quartz, form from the gradual crystallization of minerals from molten rock or solutions. However, they can sometimes be found in the same geological environment, resulting in deposits where both may be present, but they do not grow interdependently or in conjunction.
How many opal types are there?
There are 5 basic types of opal. These types are Peruvian Opal, Fire Opal, Girasol Opal, Common opal and Precious Opal.
Where are opals made?
Australian Opal are dug and cut both on the opal fields and in the city's. they are found in New South Wales (NSW) - The Home of Black Opal New South Wales produces most of the Opal of Australia. Lightning Ridge opal is the darkest and most valuable form of opal. White Cliffs, produces white or crystal opal in the form of 'seam White Cliffs is also noted for the production of 'opal pineapples' Queensland produces boulder opal, these occur in deposits in weathered sedimentary Cretaceous rocks in the west of the state Quilpie, Queensland the largest producer of boulder opal in the world Winton, Queensland Opalton, Queensland Yowah, Queensland home of the opal refered to as Yowah Nut, South Australia - The White Opal Fields South Australia has 4 working opal fields, Andamooka, Coober Pedy, Lambina and Mintabie. South Australia produces the largest amount of opal and this is known as milky opal. Coober Pedy produces most the world's white opal. Andamooka, South Australia Mintabie, South Australia Lambina, South Australia
