Opal is one of the rarest gemstones in the world. It’s also regarded as one of the most beautiful. In fact, the world-renowned Shakespeare called it the queen of all gems while Pliny, the equally popular Roman historian, pictured it as a combination of everything beautiful.
Defining Opals
Opals, together with tourmaline, have been the designated gemstone for the month of October and signify the fourteenth year of wedded bliss for couples. The opal is capable of refracting or reflecting particular light wavelengths, one of its distinct characteristics. That’s why the gemstone has earned the Greek title “opallus,” which means it undergoes a continuous change of colors. For the Romans, however, opals are Cupid Paederos, a blessing that came down from heaven during a lightning bolt.
But the truth is opal is a type of silica that is non-crystallized. It is one of the minerals that cannot be found on the earth’s surface but underneath it, and so they are mined. The majority of opals are found in geothermal springs, especially on ancient ones or areas where they could have once stood. They can also be found in areas of claystone and sandstone. Normally, because they are scattered over a very wide area, it may be actually hard to discover their exact location. Nevertheless, if you are going to mine for them, you need both hand tools and machinery. Opals are attached to their host rock. To remove them, you may need a pocket knife.
The Role of Opals in Monarchy
Stories say that during the Middle Ages, it wasn’t diamonds, but opals, that were sought after by queens. As a matter of fact, it has been believed that opals were actually eye stones—that they would give protection for the royal family and enhance their insight. They were also considered to be very powerful stones that can ward off any evil spirit. Most of all, because of their fiery and shiny colors, opals were regarded for their beauty.
Opals were commonly attached to the necklaces, scepters, and crowns of queens and kings as a sort of protection against any evil spirits that may hound them or who were eager to take over their thrones. Writers at that time were also fond of incorporating the gemstone into their stories. They often depict their protagonists to be wearing opal, which will give them the invisibility they need so these mean spirits wouldn’t be able opt to find them. One classic example is the story of Anne of Geierstein written by Sir Walter Scott, where the heroine was believed to own a cursed opal that transformed into gray when she died. The spell was only broken when Queen Victoria gave jewelry made of opal to her kin.
A Symbol of Hope
For a long time, opals were considered symbols of hope. They are the source of the most pleasant kind of emotion. If you own a pink opal, for instance, you will achieve tranquility and peace. It is also capable of providing you with positive energy, which you may need for emotional healing. Moreover, opals bring about compassion and acceptance of hurtful memories.
Fire opal, on the other hand, can invigorate an individual’s sexuality and can bring good luck to those who are starting a business. This is because opals can help initiate new and innovative ideas. They will also increase your enthusiasm and can attract money and clients to your business.
Where Opals Can be Mined
The biggest source of opal is Australia. However, the gemstone can also be found in Southern Mexico, especially the fire opals, which are usually formed in volcanic rocks. Fire opals are also widespread all over Russia. Countries such as Brazil and Czechoslovakia, as well as the state of Nevada, are also favorite mining spots.
The Making of Synthetic Opals
Opals can also be synthetically produced. Over the years, gemstone specialists were able to acquire the skill of carving and producing fine gemstones. It’s also hard to separate the fake ones from the real opals as the materials used are also similar to that of the latter. Scientists are able to copy the way nature produces opals. Magnification is often needed to distinguish real opals from artificial ones.
Opals in Jewelry
Since opals contain different kinds of colors, they can definitely complement any type of clothing or even accessory. They can be combined along with other gemstones such as emerald, sapphire, and ruby. Opals may also become a centerpiece for a ring, together with small diamonds.
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May 16th, 2008 at 11:33 pm
where can I find / source for real opals????