Opal Jewellery
What is an opal?
An opal is not technically a gemstone, although its beauty belies its classification as a mineraloid. A form of silica, it has been used as a precious stone by jewellers for centuries. Prized by the Romans, ancient Greeks and many Arabic cultures, its modern use can be attributed to – as is the tradition in the history of jewellery – being favoured by the monarchy.
Like other gems with unique histories, the opal, October’s birthstone, is filled with a rich narrative past. After opals were discovered in Australia, Queen Victoria who then Reigned began wearing Opal Jewellery, also gifting them to her daughters. And thus our modern fascination with this multicoloured, mesmerising gem was born.
FACT- Australia produces over 90% of the world’s precious opal with some of the most famous mining areas including Coober Pedy, Lightning Ridge, Yowah, Quilpie and Koroit. Other countries such as the US, Mexico, Ethiopia and Peru (amongst others) produce precious opal and fancy varieties of common opal.
FACT - Opal is a 14th Anniversary gemstone.
The stunning Opal gemstone is one of two stones celebrated as the October birthstone, the other being tourmaline .The word comes from the Latin opalus, meaning “precious jewel' and is easy to see why. Opal is the most colourful of the gems and have been associated with rainbows, butterflies, and hummingbirds in traditional folklore.
For a long time believed to be able to bring good luck to its wearer, opal birthstone is associated with virtues like purity, loyalty and hope and is believed to enhance once mental capabilities.
How to care for opal jewellery
Opals are are quite soft so need to be loved and looked after with extra care. As you should when wearing all fine jewellery, avoid doing sports or manual labour such whilst wearing them. Water will not harm your opal so clean it in warm soapy water with a soft cloth, or with a jewellery cloth. Easy!
★ Love ★ Loyalty ★ Peace ★ Consciousness ★ Faithfulness