Buy Opal Stone Online at Best Price – Opal Gemstone

Natural opal is a gemstone that has been highly valued for its unique and stunning appearance. It is formed from a combination of silica and water, and is characterized by its colorful iridescence, known as play-of-color. In this article, we will explore the history, properties, and uses of natural opal.

History of Natural Opal

Opal has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The ancient Romans considered opal a symbol of hope and purity, while the ancient Greeks believed that opals gave their owners the power of prophecy. In the Middle Ages, opal was thought to bring good luck and protect against disease. Today, opal is still highly prized for its beauty and rarity.

Properties of Natural Opal

Natural opal is a hydrated amorphous form of silica, with a chemical formula of SiO2.nH2O. It is formed in cracks and voids in rocks, where water carrying dissolved silica is deposited and slowly evaporates, leaving behind the silica to form opal. The unique structure of opal causes light to diffract and create a rainbow of colors, known as play-of-color.

Opal can vary in color, from white, gray, and black, to blue, green, and red. The intensity of the colors can also vary, depending on the thickness of the opal and the angle of light hitting the stone. Opal can also be transparent, translucent, or opaque.

Types of Natural Opal

There are several different types of natural opal, including:

1. White opal: This type of opal is characterized by a white or light-colored body, with play-of-color visible on the surface.
2. Black opal: This type of opal is characterized by a dark body color, which enhances the play-of-color and makes it more vibrant.
3. Boulder opal: This type of opal is found in ironstone boulders, and is characterized by a natural backing of ironstone, which provides a dark background to enhance the play-of-color.
4. Crystal opal: This type of opal is characterized by a transparent or translucent body, with play-of-color visible throughout the stone.

Uses of Natural Opal

Natural opal is primarily used in jewelry, where its stunning play-of-color makes it a popular choice for rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. It is also used in decorative objects, such as sculptures and vases.

Opal is a relatively soft stone, with a Mohs hardness rating of 5.5 to 6.5, which makes it susceptible to scratches and chips. To protect opal jewelry, it should be stored separately from other jewelry, and cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap.

In addition to its use in jewelry, opal has also been used for healing purposes. It is believed to help with emotional healing, and to promote a sense of calm and well-being. Some people also believe that opal can help with physical healing, particularly with eye and skin problems.

Conclusion

Natural opal is a stunning and unique gemstone, prized for its iridescent play-of-color. With a rich history dating back thousands of years, opal has been revered for its beauty and alleged healing properties. Whether worn as jewelry or used for decorative purposes, natural opal is a valuable and versatile gemstone that continues to capture the hearts of gemstone enthusiasts around the world.