Opal
Miniature of the universe that holds lightning captive
π History and Stories
The English name Opal comes from the Sanskrit word "Upala", meaning "precious stone". The ancient Romans regarded it as a symbol of hope and purity, believing it to combine the beauty of all gems. Bedouin legend has it that the opal is a stone that contains lightning bolts that fall from the sky during thunderstorms.
Historically, Queen Victoria of England was a devoted supporter of the opal, and her love for it broke the prevailing superstition that it was bad luck and made it popular again in the 19th century.
π Major Origin Distribution
Australia is recognized worldwide as the "Opal Country", supplying more than 90% of the world's finest opals, especially top quality black and white opals. In recent years, Ethiopia has also become an important producer, known for its stable and colorful volcanic opals. Mexico, on the other hand, is a major producer of fire opals.
π Discover the Capital of Opal: Coober Pedy, Australiaπ¬ Gemological Properties
| characterization | descriptive |
|---|---|
| Mineral Types | Aqueous amorphous silica |
| Chemical composition | `SiOβ-nHβO` (water content 3%-21%) |
| Mohs hardness | 5.5 - 6.5 |
| index of refraction | 1.37 - 1.47 |
| Key Features | Play-of-Color |
Opal vs. Moonstone
β¨ Magical Color Rush Effect
The opal's color does not come from the mineral itself, but from its internal microscopic structure: millions of tiny silica spheres arranged in a regular pattern. When light passes through the gaps between these spheres, it is deflected, breaking up the white light into the various colors of the spectrum, like miniature prisms.
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light penetration
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Silicon Dioxide Spheres
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Surrounded by light and color
π° Different quality grades and values
The value of an opal is extremely complex and depends mainly on the hue of the body, the intensity of the play of colors, the range of colors and the pattern.
1. Embryo color
Ranging from clear to white, gray, and black. Darker embers (such as black opal) better accentuate the color of the tourmaline and are the most valuable.
2. Intensity of the procession
The brightness and vividness of the color is key. The finest tournaments are visible in any light.
3. Colors of the procession
The more colors the tournament contains, especially the rare red, the more valuable it is.
4. Color Scheme
Large, clear patterns (such as "colored" or "clown" patterns) are more valuable than small, pinpoint patterns.
The value ladder of different varieties
The value of opals varies greatly depending on the variety. White opals are relatively common, while top quality black opals are the most valuable of all opals due to their deep backgrounds and intense play of color.
π Symbolism
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October birthstone
Sharing the honor of October's birthstone with tourmaline, it symbolizes hope, purity and truth.
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14th Wedding Anniversary Stone
Representing fidelity and ever-changing passions, it is a jewel for the 14th wedding anniversary.
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Inspiration and Creativity
It is believed to stimulate the wearer's inspiration, imagination and creativity.
π‘οΈ Care and Wear
Opal is a relatively delicate gemstone that requires special care due to its water content.
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Avoid drying out
Avoid prolonged exposure to dry or high temperatures.
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Avoid hard contact.
Lower hardness, easily scratched or cracked.
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Avoiding Temperature Differences
Rapid temperature changes may cause them to crack.
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Gentle and clean
Wipe gently with a soft cloth and warm water only.
π celebrities and fashion
Opal's unique play of color has made it a favorite of fine jewelry designers and celebrities alike. Actress Cate Blanchett wore a pair of stunning opal earrings on the red carpet, and their shifting colors perfectly complemented her gown and her style.