Birthstone: The traditional birthstone of opal is October, with the zodiac sign being Libra and Scorpio.
Meaning: The ancient Greeks believed opals gave their owners the gift of prophecy. Since then, it has been considered the gem is a symbol of hope, purity and truth. Opal is considered an October birthstone. Some people think it's unlucky for anyone born in another month to wear an opal.
What is Opal?
Opal is an amorphous form of silica, chemically similar to quartz. Gem grade opals usually have 6% to 10% water content. Opal is a sedimentary stone. Under the proper conditions, water percolates through the earth, becoming rich in dissolved silicates. When water enters a cavity, it deposits the silicates as microscopic spheres, forming opals.
Where does Opal come from?
Opals are found all around the world, like Brazil, Mexico, and the western US however Australia produces 95% of the worlds precious opals. Australian opal fields lie where inland seas once did. The rugged and desolate Australian outback provided unique conditions for silica-rich water to seep deep into the Earth’s cracks, initiating the epically long process of opal formation.
What is the meaning of Opal?
The opal stone is believed to represent higher hope and divine purity. These light dancing gemstones are here to boost those feelings of balance and peace and to help you to sift through your thoughts and feelings and throw out what doesn't work. t was poetically called "Pandora," "Light of the World," and "Queen of Gems." In ancient times, this stone was believed to possess all the characteristics of all gemstones and is used because it represents hope, clarity, and truth.
How to care for Opal?
Opals are a stone that are neither hard nor a tough stone so they should always be treated with care. Opals should never be subjected to harsh cleansers or ultrasonic cleaning. They should also not be exposed to abrasive chemicals, acids, or oils. Instead, you should softly rub and clean your opals with a mild detergent with warm water, using a soft toothbrush or cloth. You should store your opals in a cloth bag or jewellery box keeping it out of the natural sunlight as this can expose the stone and change its colour.
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