Birthstone of October
Opal derived its name from "Opalus" which meant "to see a change in colour". Australia produces over 90% of the world's supply of precious opal,and probably all of the highest quality gems. It was originally sourced from South America and Hungary and is suggested that miners described Australian opal as false or "fake" due to its competition as opal had never before been seen so beautiful and colourful. There is not enough gem quality black opal to satisfy world demand and those who take the time to learn and appreciate this magnificent gemstone invariably fall in love with its beauty and character. Opal is unique and no other gemstone can display all the colours of the rainbow in so many diffeent forms. No two stones are identical and for this reason the proud owner can delight in the fact that their gem no other person can own.
Opals are Lucky
Opal is known as the stone of good fortune and has always been highly sought after. In ancient times it was believed to be a noble gem which possessed magical powers. Romans were great admirers of the opal believing it was a combination of all precious stones and thus the most beautiful. The Roman Pliny wrote: "For in them you shall see the burning fire of the carbuncle or ruby,the glorious purple of the amethyst,the green sea of emerald,all glittering together,mixed after an incredible matter". Elizabethans placed opal on the same worth as diamonds. Opal has been believed to be vital to good eyesight and to have curative effects on poor eyesight.
Famous People and Opal
Opal is found in numerous Crowns of Kings around the world for example the Crown Jewels of France,the Holy Roman Emperors Crown and Queen Victoria loved opal. Today still around the world Royals and Heads of State wear or own opals.
Looking after your Opal
Opal is a delicate stone and needs to be protected against harsh knocks and extreme,sudden heat changes. If you have an opal doublet or triplet,never immerse it in chemicals or water as this may break down the glue that keeps them together. If you look after your precious opal like any other fine jewellery it will maintain its beauty generation after generation. Your opal may lose some of its shine after many years of use but all it requires is an experienced jeweller to give it a quick polish and it will be back to its original brilliance.
Opals are Lucky
Opal is known as the stone of good fortune and has always been highly sought after. In ancient times it was believed to be a noble gem which possessed magical powers. Romans were great admirers of the opal believing it was a combination of all precious stones and thus the most beautiful. The Roman Pliny wrote: "For in them you shall see the burning fire of the carbuncle or ruby,the glorious purple of the amethyst,the green sea of emerald,all glittering together,mixed after an incredible matter". Elizabethans placed opal on the same worth as diamonds. Opal has been believed to be vital to good eyesight and to have curative effects on poor eyesight.
Famous People and Opal
Opal is found in numerous Crowns of Kings around the world for example the Crown Jewels of France,the Holy Roman Emperors Crown and Queen Victoria loved opal. Today still around the world Royals and Heads of State wear or own opals.
Looking after your Opal
Opal is a delicate stone and needs to be protected against harsh knocks and extreme,sudden heat changes. If you have an opal doublet or triplet,never immerse it in chemicals or water as this may break down the glue that keeps them together. If you look after your precious opal like any other fine jewellery it will maintain its beauty generation after generation. Your opal may lose some of its shine after many years of use but all it requires is an experienced jeweller to give it a quick polish and it will be back to its original brilliance.
