

This translation is fitting because the opal gemstone is known to be highly unique with variations in color depending on which one you purchase. The word “opallios” means to see a change in color. The opal’s name comes from the Greek word opallios. This is known as the Ethiopian opal, which is characterized by its distinct reddish body as well as hints of electric green and majestic purple. However, Ethiopia has been known to produce a variation of the opal as well. The fields of Coober Pedy, located in South Australia, hold a majority of the white opal. The opal is mainly produced in Australia, where ninety-five percent of it is formed. The play-on-color is barely present in contrast to the precious opal. There is a fire opal as well, which has a red, yellow, or orange primary color to it. This is when flashes of ingenious color are seen after turning the stone in the light or shifting its angle. On the other hand, a precious opal will have a “play-on-color” to it. A potch has an opalescence to it which appears as a pearly luster. The millions of silica spheres which are formed in different sizes are the reason why opal gemstones contain many splashes of beautiful colors.Ī common opal is also known as a potch. Silica is commonly found as a part of the sand and in quartz. After the water from the rain evaporates, the remaining silica dries out to help form and complete the opal gemstone.

The opal is quite interesting because it is formed primarily by rain. This means that it is cut and styled to serve as a decorative piece in jewelry. Once, it was thought to have the power to preserve the life and color of blond hair.An opal is a gemstone is considered to be one of the most beautiful stones available in the world.Ī gemstone is a precious or semiprecious stone. In fact, throughout most of history, opal has been regarded as the luckiest and most magical of all gems because it can show all colors. But that particular superstition comes from a novel written in the 1800s ( Anne of Geierstein by Sir Walter Scott), and not from any ancient belief or experience. Some people think it’s unlucky for anyone born in another month to wear an opal. Opal is considered an October birthstone. Europeans have long considered the gem a symbol of hope, purity, and truth. The ancient Greeks believed opals gave their owners the gift of prophecy and guarded them from disease. Arabic legends say it falls from the heavens in flashes of lightning.

Many cultures have credited opal with supernatural origins and powers. Others…simulate the flaming fire of burning sulphur and even the bright blaze of burning oil.” He marveled that this kaleidoscopic gem encompassed the red of ruby, the green of emerald, the yellow of topaz, the blue of sapphire, and the purple of amethyst. In 75 AD, the Roman scholar Pliny observed, “Some opali carry such a play within them that they equal the deepest and richest colors of painters. The Romans gave it a name-opalus-that was synonymous with “precious stone.” In ancient Rome, this gem symbolized love and hope. Admirers gave extraordinary opals poetic names like Pandora, Light of the World, and Empress. Writers have compared opals to volcanoes, galaxies, and fireworks.

Comprehensive CAD/CAM For Jewelry CertificateĮven today, opal invokes a feeling of magic and mystery.
