mineral

Pink Opal

Hydrated Silica (SiO2·nH2O)

Hardness: 5.5-6.0 Mohs; Color: Pale pink to deep salmon with white banding; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Specific Gravity: 1.9-2.3

Hardness: 5
Color: Pale pink to deep salmon with white banding
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified April 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6.0 Mohs; Color: Pale pink to deep salmon with white banding; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Amorphous (non-crystalline); Specific Gravity: 1.9-2.3

Formation & geological history

Formed from silica-rich water Precipitation in fissures and cavities at relatively low temperatures. Most pink opal belongs to the Tertiary period (roughly 60-2 million years ago).

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (cabochons and beads) and for lapidary art. It is also a very popular specimen for crystal healing collectors.

Geological facts

Unlike Australian 'precious opal', pink opal is a 'common opal', meaning it does not show the play-of-color or fire. It gets its pink hue from inclusions of palygorskite or organic compounds (quinones).

Field identification & locations

Look for a waxy luster and a smooth feel; it should not show rainbow flashes. Most specimens are found in Peru (Andean Pink Opal) and parts of Mexico and Australia.