Description
Opal is a very special precious stone. It has been used in amulets and decorative jewellery for about 6 000 years. About 300 years ago it was found in Hungary, then in about 1800 if was found in Australia and which has been the main source since. Now there are many more mines throughout the world, most notably Mexico. There are an enormous number of different types of opal. Some of the major groups are Common opal, Light opal, Boulder opal, Black opal, Matrix opal and Fire opal. Most opals are cut as oval cabochons.
Opal is one of the October birth stones.
Care of your opal.
Opal is a fairly soft stone about 5 to 6 on the Mohs hardness scale. So don’t put your opal jewellery loose in a box with rough hard objects, such as metals or sapphires and diamonds. Opals should be kept away from direct hot sun or freezing conditions. You can clean your opal jewellery with a soft tooth brush and warm soapy water.