mineral
Pink Opal
Hydrated Silica (SiO2·nH2O)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 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
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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.
