Opal is a hydrated amorphous form of silica, is the national gemstone of Australia, and is the birthstone of those born in October. Opal is as well one of the most beautiful and mysterious gems in the mineral world because of its outrageous psychedelic-like colours when the precious form of the gems have a colour play.
Where Does Opal Come From?
Opal is found around the world (Brazil, Mexico, Honduras and the western US) however Australia produces 95% of the world’s precious opal and it is our official national gemstone.Opal was first mined commercially at Listowel Downs in Queensland in 1875 and later at White Cliffs in NSW. Today, Coober Pedy (SA) is the main producer of white opal, though in recent years this field has expanded and all types of opals are found. Other centres in SA include Andamooka and Mintabe. Lightning Ridge (NSW) is renowned for black opal and formerly White Cliffs was a large producer of high quality opal. Boulder opals (opals in concretionary ironstone) are mined in Queensland from numerous localities in a zone extending from the Eulo and Cunnamulla district in the south and northwest for a distance of over 700 km to Kynuna in the north. The towns of Quilpie, Yowah and Winton are the main opal mining and wholesale centres.
Colors in Opals
Opals can contain every color of the rainbow within them. Blue, Green, Purple, Pink, Yellow, Red, Orange, and everything in between. Sometimes individually, sometimes with just a few and sometimes with all colors within the one cut opal. These array of different colors is one of the main reasons why every single opal is unique.
What do we have now
With a 5.5 to 6.5 Mohs Hardness rating, opals are susceptible to scratching and are more suitable for wearing on special occasions rather than every day. At the same time, the versatility and beauty of opal jewelry is worth the extra care needed to clean it and keep it safe. To prevent damage, store opal jewelry away from other gems.
Sterling Silver Opal Adjustable Open Dainty Butterfly Rings
This piece features the two delicate butterflies decorated with cubic zircon and opal. The open ring would be a perfect choice for friends as you don’t worry about the size problem. More butterfly opal rings are available at YFN.
14K Yellow Gold Moon Opal Necklaces
