Opals are magnificent gemstones that are commonly described as ‘the queen of gemstones’ due to their remarkable ability to create the play of color. This beautiful phenomenon is called ‘opalescence’ and is because opal gemstone is made up of a large number of interconnecting spheres of silica. 

When light gets into these spheres, it is diffused and refracted with different colors and produces a beautiful display of colors.

The Science Behind Opalescence

• The organization of the silica spheres in opal crystals is in a manner resembling that of the diffraction grating. If light is required to pass through this grating it becomes like a prism where the light is split into its various colours. 

• The characters of an opal stone depend on silica spheres in terms of size and arrangement of the sphere centers. Larger spheres produce the red and the orange colors and the smaller spheres give the blue and violet colors.

• The man-made opals are produced in a laboratory to be similar to the physical properties of the opal crystals. They may not have the same worth as natural opal gemstones but these gems present an equally beautiful and relatively cheap option to use.

The Beauty of Opals

This is especially so for opals where the effect of color that is seen dancing in the gemstone is breathtaking. It does not remain fixed but varies with the position of the light, the angle at which it is being viewed, or the environment in which the opal gemstone is set. 

This is because these gemstone’s properties continue to change, which seems to enhance their intrigue.

• Besides being used for setting in rings, pendants, earrings as well as bangles, opals find their use in many other jewelry items. They can be made even in different types of metals including silver, gold, or platinum. 

• Thus, opals are quite an interesting and stunning gemstone with several colors within them. The relatively complex structure and their ability to reflect light give a fascinating dance of colors that is not available in any other kind of gemstone. 

Even though you want to be a collector of gemstones or you admire and respect the work of nature, opals will inspire you.

The Crown Jewels of Opals

Gems quality opal crystals are the most valuable and rare types of opals in the market. It is with these kinds of animals that colors are expressed most brightly and with most vivacity, and often this spectrum of colors includes all the colors of the rainbow. They can be viewed as the rock n roll icons of the opal industry!

Play-of-Color Opals & Fire Opals

• The name, play-of-color opal is very close to precious opal in their play of color although not as bright. They can however be very appealing and possess a certain kind of beauty. also, they are quite expensive.

• These created or formed fire opal stones often show bright red or orange colors that may change with the display of light. Why, they are like mini-sun shining on your wrist or neck or wherever on your skin they may be. Read more about fire opal at Fire Opal: History, Types, and Uses 

Boulder & Ethiopian  Opals

• There are different types of opal stone with boulder opal being the most familiar kind that is originally from Australia. They are made up of ironstone or sandstone, in which there are pockets of opal. These gems have a raw feel to them and the rawness of nature can be seen on them.

• Ethiopian opal stones are relatively novel and people have shown interest because of the attributing features. In most cases, they display a rich play of color and are more likely to be found with higher degrees of transparency than the Australian varieties. To know more about your zodiac signs read this : The birthstone of Courage, Bliss, and Protection: Opal Gemstone

The Everyday Beauties

• That may sound counterintuitive, but never underestimate the oral pathogens just because they have mnemonics in their name! 

• The common opal crystals are nevertheless attractive gemstones though they do not exhibit as fiery a body color play as is characteristic of the precious opals. Most pearls have derived bubbles or luminescent properties and hence can be applied to any kind of jewelry.

Conclusion

Opals are mesmerizing gemstones, they have a wide color spectrum and can be used in many healing practices. As a gemstone lover or investor. opals can be your dear friend. The kind of environment, in which the opal is set in, also adds to the beauty of the gem and the beauty of the features possessed by the stone.