Search results
Opal is a hydrated amorphous form of silica (SiO 2 · n H 2 O); its water content may range from 3% to 21% by weight, but is usually between 6% and 10%. Due to its amorphous property, it is classified as a mineraloid, unlike crystalline forms of silica, which are considered minerals.
The Bedouins believed that opals contained lightning and fell from the sky during thunderstorms. When Australia’s mines began to produce opals commercially in the 1890s, it quickly became the world’s primary source for this October birthstone. Opal Description. Opal History and Lore.
Jul 1, 2024 · Opal. Modified date: 01/07/2024. Opals are a unique and mesmerizing gemstone known for their distinctive play of color, making them one of the most sought-after and mysterious gemstones in the world. In this introduction, we will provide a definition and a brief overview of opals.
Aug 11, 2021 · Opal is a gemstone that forms in a variety of different colors, shapes, and sizes. Unlike most gemstones, opal isn't a mineral but a mineraloid. The composition is a hydrated (wet) amorphous silica with a Mohs hardness scale ranking between 5.0 to 6.5.
For thousands of years, people have mined and treasured opals. These striking stones are the traditional October birthstone and have inspired a rich body of folklore. (So rich, in fact, opal gems have been considered both the luckiest and unluckiest stones you can wear).
Jan 3, 2024 · White opal is a captivating gemstone known for its milky or creamy base color, ranging from pure white to light grey. This type of opal is famous for its play-of-color, displaying a rainbow of hues that flash and move within the stone. The colors can include vibrant greens, blues, reds, and oranges, making each white opal unique and eye-catching.
Oct 1, 2024 · OPAL GEMSTONE INFORMATION. Opal is one of the birthstones for October (along with Tourmaline) and is the gemstone given on a 14th wedding anniversary. The bright colours given out by Opal are caused by tiny amounts of moisture and silica trapped within the stone.
Nov 9, 2023 · The Meaning Of Opal. Opal derives its name from the Sanskrit word upala, meaning jewel. This stone boasts a multitude of color variations, with two main types: Common Opal and Precious or Gem Opal. Common Opal is recognized for its translucence and diverse color palette, featuring hues such as red, green, blue, and orange.
Opal is known for its unique display of flashing rainbow colors called play-of-color. There are two broad classes of opal: precious and common. Precious opal displays play-of-color, common opal does not.
Overview. Buyer's Guide. Photos & Videos. Research. Opal is the product of seasonal rains that drenched dry ground in regions such as Australia’s semi-desert “Outback.” It is known for its unique display of flashing rainbow colors.