Jasper Vs. Opal

Jasper is a very popular gemstone composed of silicon dioxide.^[1] Opal is also a very popular gemstone and its chemical composition is also silicon dioxide.^[2]

Quick Facts on Differences of Jasper and Opal

For a quick recap of the differences jasper and opal:

• Jasper is opaque while opal can be translucent or transparent.
• For chemical formulas, jasper is SiO2 while opal is SiO2· nH2O.
• While both jasper and opal can be vitreous or waxy, in terms of luster, jasper can be dull and opal can be pearly.
• Jasper's specific gravity is higher than opal - jasper ranges from 2.55 to 2.91 and opal ranges from 1.98 to 2.25.

Quick Facts on Similarities of Jasper and Opal

The similarities of jasper and opal include:

• Jasper and opal both streak white.
• Jasper and opal both are red.
• Jasper's rarity is similar to opal.

Summary of Jasper

Jasper is a type of mineral that is commonly found in sedimentary rocks, and is usually formed through the deposition of silica-rich sediments. It is a beautiful and unique mineral that comes in a variety of colors, including red, brown, yellow, green, and blue. Jasper is often used in jewelry making, as well as for decorative purposes in home decor and landscaping.

Summary of Opal

Opal is a mineraloid that is formed from the silica-rich water that permeates through the earth's crust. It is a beautiful gemstone that is known for its unique play of colors. Opal is a non-crystalline mineral that is made up of tiny spheres of silica, which diffract light in a way that creates a rainbow of colors. The colors of opal can range from white, gray, and black to red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple.

Table Comparison of Jasper vs Opal