OPA
L: A Fascinating and Rare Gemstone Opals are one of the most important and intriguing gemstones in the world, with a unique and captivating beauty that can only be rivaled by other precious gems such as diamonds and pearls. While most people are familiar with opals and their beauty, there are many interesting things to learn about these oceans of colors hidden inside a piece of the earth. Here are some little-known facts about opals that make them so fascinating and unique:
1. Opals are formed in hot, dry environments Unlike many other gemstones, opals are not formed deep within the earth, where high pressure and temperature conditions cause mineral crystals to grow. Instead, opals are formed in warm, dry places such as Australia, where a unique combination of geological factors causes opalized silica to crystalize in rock cavities over millions of years.
2. Opals are not just white While most people think of opals as being white or translucent, the truth is that they can come in a wide array of colors, from bright reds and oranges to deep blues and purples. This color is determined by the size of the silica spheres that make up the opal, as well as the orientation of the pores that allow light to reflect off the stone.
3. Opals are extremely rare Despite their beauty, opals are extremely rare, with most of the world's supply coming from Australia. In fact, it is estimated that only one in over a million stones excavated from the earth will contain a high-quality opal.
4. Opals were once believed to have healing powers Throughout history, opals have been revered for their supposed healing powers. The ancient Greeks believed that opals gave the wearer the power to see the future, while medieval European cultures believed that opals could protect against evil and bring good luck. Today, many people still believe that opals have healing properties, and use them to alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression.
5. Opals can be very expensive Due to their rarity and beauty, high-quality opals can be very expensive, with some stones selling for over $10,000 per carat. In fact, the most expensive opal ever sold was a black opal from Australia, which was valued at over $1 million. In conclusion, opals are truly fascinating and unique gemstones that continue to captivate and inspire people around the world. Whether you're an avid collector or simply appreciate their beauty, there is no denying the allure of these precious stones. So, the next time you come across an opal, take a moment to appreciate the hidden beauty and complexity of one of nature's most intriguing creations.