Opal vs Jadeite jade
Jadeite jade is harder (Mohs 6.5–7) than Opal (Mohs 5.5–6.5), so it resists scratching better; Opal is softer than quartz dust (7) and needs more care in everyday rings.
Jadeite jade has the higher refractive index (1.66 vs 1.450), which a refractometer can use to separate them.
Jadeite jade is denser (SG 3.34 vs 2.15); a jadeite jade of the same size weighs about 55% more.
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| Property | Opal | Jadeite jade |
|---|---|---|
| Species / material | Opal (hydrated silica) | Jadeite (pyroxene) |
| Mohs hardness | 5.5–6.5 | 6.5–7 |
| Refractive index | 1.450 | 1.66 |
| Specific gravity | 2.15 | 3.34 |
| Crystal system | Amorphous | Monoclinic (aggregate) |
| Birefringence | None | Not usually measurable |
Values are typical ranges from standard gemmological references; individual stones can vary.
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