Opal: The Most Precious and Beautiful Gemstone in the World
Opal is an incredibly precious and beautiful gemstone that is exclusively used as a gem. It is one of the few gemstones that are found predominantly in Australia. This submicrocrystalline type of cristobalite is a noble gem that was ranked second to emerald in ancient times by the Romans.
Opal is a rare material that is mostly colorless. However, it can be imparted by widespread impurities that give it various dull body colors ranging from red to yellow. The name “opal” is said to have originated from ancient Rome and was known as “opalus” to mean precious stone. The majority of opal is mined in Australia, with other countries such as Mexico, Brazil, and Ethiopia also contributing to its production.
Types of Opal
There are two primary varieties of opal: precious opal and common opal. Precious opal is a comparatively rare type of opal that displays a characteristic play of color. It is, therefore, more expensive compared to common opal. Common opal, also known as potch, does not display any play of color and appears unremarkable. The color can either be grey, white, or black. Opals of this type are in abundance in the world.
What Makes Opal Special
Opal stands out from other gemstones, especially precious opal, because of its beautiful and vibrant colors that are displayed when viewed from different angles. This is what is referred to as a “play of color”. It makes the gemstone more precious and desirable to collectors and aficionados of gems.
The precious opals usually have a vibrant color, which makes them stand out. When viewed from different angles under various light, they display a multi-dimensional color that makes them even more precious. This unique attribute makes opal a popular choice among gemstone enthusiasts.
Opal is truly special because of its ability to absorb liquids. Hydrophane, a variety of opal, can absorb large quantities of water. When opal lacks moisture and dries out, it may lose its color or crack. Dry opal appears close to opaque, whereas saturated opal is nearly transparent.
Benefits of Opal
Opal has been associated with the planet Venus, and it is believed that when one wears opal, they can enjoy the benefits of Venus, which is associated with romantic relationships and luxury.
Opal is said to assist in living a luxurious life by bringing prosperity and helping one gain a good reputation. Furthermore, it is claimed that it can help businesses thrive in import-export, travel, and tourism. Opal is also believed to help settle debts and litigations.
If you have any issues in your marriage, opal can be useful in providing marital bliss. It is also used in finding suitable matches. The crystal helps people get over emotional setbacks and any sufferings that someone can have succumbed to in previous relationships. The crystal works by calming the mind and helping you make peace with past happenings.
Opal has health benefits as well. It aids in curing stomach and intestine issues such as acidity and indigestion. The wonderful gem is believed to be able to treat hormonal and pancreatic problems. It can also fix any eye-related issues, help keep your eyes healthy, and leave you with an excellent immune system.
Opal also enhances creativity and other artistic abilities. It is believed to bring peace, joy, wealth, and good fortune in general to those who wear it. When you wear opal, you are bound to have more self-confidence, a pleasing personality, and the ability to utilize your potential to the fullest.
Table: Opal’s Benefits
| Health Benefits | Emotional Benefits | Business Benefits |
| — | — | — |
| Aids in curing stomach and intestine issues such as acidity and indigestion | Helps people get over emotional setbacks and any sufferings from previous relationships | Assists in making businesses perform well in import-export, travel, and tourism |
| Treats hormonal and pancreatic problems | Calms the mind and helps to make peace with past happenings | Settles debts and litigations |
| Enhances our immune system and general health | Builds self-confidence and a pleasing personality | Brings good fortune and prosperity |
In conclusion, opal is among the most precious and beautiful gemstones in the world. Opal exists in two types: precious opal and common opal. The precious opals usually have a vibrant color or have a play of colors. Opal has health benefits, enhances creativity, and is believed to bring peace, joy, wealth, and good fortune in general to those who wear it. It is a perfect gemstone for those who seek luxury and opulence in life.