The word ‘opal’ is from Latin opalus, opallios in ancient Greek, meaning to ‘see a change of colour’. This ancient civilization was very fond of these stones and regarded them as the symbol of hope and purity, and the gem from which the colors of all the other gems may be obtained.
These gems were first found in the area that now is Slovakia, but they were not popular until the 19th century when, in Australia, major deposits of Opals were discovered. These Australian Opals, with a high degree of play-of-color, brought the gemstone onto the world stage.
Opal gemstone also has religious and cultural importance in many early civilizations all over the world. For instance, it was believed that Opal stones were created during storms and came falling down during storms in Arabic countries, and it was the goddess of pride in ancient India.

This gemstone, when cut and polished, reveals the beauty of the world or rainbow, is so versatile and has an ancient and mysterious feel about it.

Regardless of whether you are enamored with the beauty of Opal, its significance, or its history, this gemstone is a true gem that brings balance, protection, and allure to the lives of those that wear it. If adequate care is given to it, Opal gemstone jewelry items can turn into family gems for succeeding generations.

Color

They come in as many colors as one might imagine, from white to black, to red, orange, green, and blue. Black Opals, owing to a high degree of play-of-color against low to medium body color, are considered as the highest-grade, followed by white and crystal Opals, which, though possessing a lower play-of-color degree, are no less fascinating.

Clarity

The transparency of Opal gemstones differs due to their type. For instance, black Opals are commonly black and might be opaque, while crystal Opals are translucent to transparent, making their play-of-color much better.

Cut

Many of them are cut as cabochons to maximize their color and also to ensure that the stone does not easily break. However, freeform and unique cuts are also applied and are popular for jewelry made to order.

Luster

Consistent with the Opal classification, the Opal mineral more often has a vitreous to resinous luster, which enhances the gem’s otherworldly look.

Opposed to other opalescent gems, Opal gemstones have more than just excellent appearances, though they provide some extra bonuses as well.

Hardness

The magnitudes of hardness of Opals are 5.5 to 6.5 and therefore considered to be very soft compared to other gemstones. They need some attention when in use, and one should avoid possible scratches and bumps.

Play-of-Color

This is because the green color in the gemstone – more accurately in the microscopic silica spheres in the gemstone – is attributable to light diffraction. The shapes and placement of these spheres decide what colours and prints are produced.

Water Content

These gemstones are cited to be water-saturated (commonly between 3 and 21% of their weight); thus, they are highly vulnerable to heat and variation in temperatures.

Structure

Unlike other gems such as diamond, ruby, sapphire, and emerald, Opal stones are not crystalline; they are basically amorphous. This gives them such a beautiful flowing look, unlike most other gemstones.

There are regions from where Opal stones are mined, and each place produces different kinds of gem.

• Australia: Founded in 1982, it has become the world’s leading supplier of high-quality Opals, white and black Opals at that. Two mines for mining include the Lightning Ridge and Coober Pedy mines.
• Ethiopia: Ethiopian Opal, famous for its crystal and fire Opals, is mostly known for having attractive play-of-color and, in many instances, a cellular look like honeycomb.
• Mexico: Well-known for fire Opals that range from orange to red color. Of course, they have no play-of-color, but their ‘fiery’ look is enough to drive them up in demand.
• United States: Nevada and Idaho have valuable Opal deposits; both play host to both gem and scour.

The Opal stone is especially connected with Libra, which is the sign representing the Scales in astrology occurring between September 23 and October 22.

Opal cabochons are also employed as gemstones for Scorpio (October 23 – November 21).

What are the Healing Properties of Opal Birthstones?

Emotional Healing

• Showcases creativity and ideas.
• Makes customers feel free and express their complex emotions.

Physical Healing

• Consumed with the hope of enhancing eyesight as well as improving eye health.

Spiritual Healing

• Builds on one’s feelings and helps to elevate spiritual levels.

Do not confuse Opals with gemstones that are softer and fragile; if well cared for, the stones can last for years.

Cleaning

To clean your Opals, simply use warm water and mild soap. Wash the Opals with a piece of soft cloth. Do not immerse the stone in ultrasonic cleaners or clean it with chemicals that are likely to discolor the surface.

Storage

Store jewelry in tissues and soft saccharate or velvet material. Store the separate pieces of jewelry in a special pouch or box. Also, because of the water content, Opals should never be exposed to extreme heat or subjected to lengthy periods of direct sunlight.

Avoiding Damage

Do not wear these during activities that are likely to expose them to difficult-to-resist forces, chemicals, or quick temperature fluctuations.

Rehydration

If the color of your Opal looks faded, it may well be that the stone has dried up. Wiping it with a damp cloth for some time can work wonders to make it as glossy as it used to be.

What are the available colors in Opal?

Opals are available in white, black, red, orange, blue, green, and play-of-color stones as well.

Is Opal sturdy enough for daily wear?

The Mohs hardness of Opals ranges from 5.5-6.5, making them easily damageable and therefore requiring careful handling. They should not be worn every day, but occasionally they are the best to be worn.

What are the benefits of Opal?

Opal is said to be a creative stone, mood stabilizer, and spiritual shield. It also stands for hope, virginity, and prosperity.