It is usually milky, but the best examples can be transparent. It can range in color from yellow to red. The flashing of color is often referred to as "fire" or "play of light." Precious opals appear in a range of white to black (usually dark gray, green or blue backgrounds).įire opal is named for its color and does not display opalescence. Depending on the angle of view, rainbow-like flashes of different colors appear, caused by light reflecting off of extremely small spheres of cristobalite within the silica gel. Precious opals display a unique opalescence. It's possible for opals to dry out and crack, and they are relatively soft, fragile gemstones. Natural opals are non-crystalline, hydrated silicon dioxide gemstones that contain up to 30% water. A French manufacturer, Gilson, created the first "opalescent" imitation opal in 1973 though synthetic opals have been created since the '30s. Opal Geological Properties Opals come in three natural varieties: opalescent precious opal, fire opal (yellow to red-orange) and the generally opaque common opal. European cultures have long believed opal is a symbol of hope, purity and truth. Some people believe that opal can help moderate and harmonize sexual desires. The gemstone has been associated with the sacral chakra, imbalances of which can cause problems with addictions. The light-colored gemstones have long been associated with helping people become less visible to others and also in improving eyesight. It is said that precious opal, with its display of fire, can spark creativity, and that the "dance" of its fire can help people enjoy their lives. Opal is also an alternative birthstone for April babies. While some people believe it is unlucky for people not born in October to wear opal, the gemstone has actually long been valued as a stone of luck and magic. Opal is now associated with the birthstone of October (along with pink tourmaline) and as the gemstone of the 14th marriage anniversary. During Roman times, the Latin word opalus came into use. Ancient Greeks thought the stone could give people the gift of prophecy and protected them from disease. In Indian mythology, the virgin Goddess of the Rainbow was turned into an opal by the Mother Goddess because she was being chased by suitors Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. The name "opal" comes from the Sanskrit word upala, meaning precious stone.
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