Opal - What is opal

The magnificent and valuable opal

“... each stone flickers with a unique fire, and a good opal is one with an opinion of its own.” -- Victoria Finlay

The flashes of rainbow colours in opals are indeed a sight to behold. In Europe, opals have, for centuries, been symbols of truth, hope, and purity. When choosing opal jewelry, be sure to look for the “play of colour” and choose a piece in which the opal is set securely. Opals are delicate gems that are best in a bezel, closed-back, raised-prong, and cage settings.

Australia has the largest deposits of opals. Ethiopia, Brazil, and Mexico are also important sources. Smaller quantities are found in Central Europe, Indonesia, Turkey, Mexico, and the United States.

Colours and types of opals

Cut and polished as cabochons, gemstone-quality opals display an optical effect with flashes of coloured light when turned in white light called the “play of colour”. Opals are found in the entire spectrum of colours and types:

Black opals display the best play of colour to the body colour; they are the rarest and most favoured by buyers.

White opals are more common and range from translucent to opaque in white and light hues and display iridescence.

Fire opals —also called Mexican Opals—come in red, orange, or yellow, ranging from transparent to translucent.

Boulder opals are found as thin layers within the rock called the matrix. They are cut as gemstones along with the matrix.

The range of colours and the vividity of the play of colours determine the value of an opal. Therefore, an opal with a more vivid play of colour in a broader spectrum of the rainbow will command a higher price. Opals can be treated to alter their colour, clarity and durability.

Interesting facts about opals

The best-known opal is the 180-carat Aurora Australis; this oval gemstone sparkles with red, green, and blue flashes against a black background. Opal derives its name from Sanskrit, Upala, or gemstone. The ancients believed this mineraloid bestowed the gift of prophecy and protection from disease.

It is the birthstone for October and The star sign Libra. It is also the 14th wedding anniversary stone. Opals fall at 5 to 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale. These gems are relatively fragile and are prone to be scratched easily. Opal jewelry must, therefore, be stored safely.

To be sure of what you are buying, shop at a reliable source like thejewelleryroom.com. We have a collection of charming jewelry set with luminescent opals. Find them here.