---------------------------------------

Wednesday 30 November 2011

Opal Gemstone - The changing color stone

The Opal gemstone is synonymous with confidence, happiness and loyalty. It is the anniversary gemstone for the 14th and 18th year of marriage. This mystifying gem is available in many colors and shapes - oval, cushion and heart shaped. The name for Opal is derived from Latin word ‘opalus’ meaning precious stone. The Sanskrit word for opal is ‘upala’. Opal is mainly found in southern Australia. They are also mined in Mexico, Brazil, Czechoslovakia and the US.

Opal was formed when silica combined with water in hot water springs. Opal is a soft and delicate gem and can get cracked or chipped easily. Opal gems are brittle as they contain water. Crazing may occur if the opal is exposed to extreme heat, cold or moisture. It is sensitive to heat and can break easily. Opals are stored in water to avoid crazing. It has a rating of 5.5 to 6 on the Moh’s scale. There are 5 main types of opals: Black opal, white opal, crystal opal, water opal and fire opal. Water opal is transparent or semitransparent without any play of color or opalescence.

Legend has it that Opal fell directly on earth during lightning. The Romans regard Opal gemstone very highly. A beautiful Opal gem was set in the crown of the Holy Roman Emperor. Opal gemstones display rainbow colors that flash when the stone is turned and moved in different lights. This magnificent phenomenon is called play of color. It is caused by diffraction of light in silica spheres composition in the stone. White and Fire Opals are more preferred than Black Opals.

The Fire Opal gemstone is known to cure blood related disorders and depression. The White Opal is known to treat neuro disorders and the black opal is believed to heal diseases of the spleen, pancreas and bones. It clears out all blockages and increases flow of energy in the body. The Opal is known to heal eye problems and improve eye sight.

This stone looks great on any color outfit. Opals are commonly used in fashion jewelry such as rings, necklace pendants and bracelets. The Opal gem promotes love and affection among couples. It increases financial gains and enhances imagination and intuition power. This gem needs to be oiled regularly to retain the water inside. Opal gems are brittle as they contain water. Crazing may occur if the opal is exposed to extreme heat, cold or moisture. It is sensitive to heat and can break easily. Opals are stored in water to avoid crazing.

Resource Link: Discount Gemstones| Discount Opal Gemstones | Gems Stones Blog

1 comment: