Opal, 0.26ct

About Opals

Opallios is the Greek word for Opals meaning to see a change of color. Unlike other gemstones, it is not crystalline. They can be more aptly described as a hardened jelly. Known for their special optical property called iridescence or "play of colors", opals have long been known as the queen of gemstones. They can display colors with various hues and patterns, akin to an artist's work. Most Opals are cut as cabochons to enhance and display this effect.

Belonging to the silicate group of minerals, Opals form from a solution of silicon dioxide and water. As water runs down through the earth, it picks up silica from sandstone and carries this silica-rich solution into cracks and voids. As the water evaporates, it leaves behind a silica deposit.

Opals can be broadly categorized into White Opal, Black Opal, Fire Opal, and Water Opal-based on their body color. Another addition to the above is the famous Hannequin Black Opals from Australia which are extremely sought after.

Apart from Australia which produces a major chunk of Opals worldwide, they are also found from countries like Ethiopia, Mexico, India, Brazil, Honduras, and the USA. They have a refractive index of 1.450 and a Moh's hardness of 5.0-6.5 on a scale of 10.