OUR STONES
OPAL
Opal is a very unique gemstone because of its play of color, which are sparkles of different tones appearing on its surface when it moves. Each opal has its own pattern of color, making every stone completely different and unique. There are two classes of opal, precious and common, only precious opal displays a play of color. This is because it is composed of microscopic silica spheres that diffract light and cause it to break into the spectral colors of the rainbow, the color varies with the sizes of the spheres. Gemologists divide opals into many different categories, but the five main types are:
- White or light opal: translucent or semitranslucent, they have a white bodycolor.
- Black opal: translucent to opaque and a dark bodycolor.
- Crystal opal: transparent or semitransparent, they have a clear bodycolor and show a unique play of color.
- Boulder opal: Found usually in Australia, it forms within a host rock. Translucent to opaque, it has play of color against light to dark background.
- Fire opal: Transparent to translucent, it has a yellow, orange, red or brown bodycolor and it usually doesn’t show play of color.
Opals have been treasured for centuries by many cultures and they have been compared with galaxies, the universe and fireworks. In Ancient Rome, it symbolized purity and hope. The Roman scholar and naturalist Pliny wrote that the opal had the red of ruby, the green of emerald, the yellow of topaz, the blue of sapphire and the purple of amethyst.
According to Arabic legends, opals fell from the sky during lightning storms, capturing the light and fire in them. The Ancient Greeks believed opals had a divine origin and gave the gift of prophecy, foresight and protection against diseases. Europeans saw it as a symbol of truth and hope.
The novel Anne of Geierstein written by Sir Walter Scott in 1829 created the superstition that opals are unlucky, affecting the sales and reputation of the gem in the 19th century. This belief doesn’t come from any actual experience, but later opals became the birthstone of October due to its “cursed” reputation.
Opal hardness is of around 5,5 to 6,5 on the Mohs scale, it is more delicate than other gemstones. It can be found in many regions around the world, including Ethiopia, Mexico and Brazil. The world's leading producer is Australia, where the opal is considered the national gemstone.
Opal is a cherished gemstone that carries different symbolism, cultural legends and spiritual meanings. Often associated with inspiration, creativity and awakening, it is said that it also has the power to make us embrace change. Opal stands out from other colored stones for its shifting colors and unique patterns, making it a piece of jewelry with light and movement.
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