Opal jewelry is highly sought after for a number of reasons, including the variety of colors available from stone to stone as well as the many colors within each stone. While some display all the colors in the spectrum, others may predominantly show reds and oranges while others may be more blue, green and yellow. Their infinite variety of colors ensures that no two opals will ever be alike.
A Brief History of the Opal
Opals have long been prized by cultures around the globe. In early Roman times, it was highly prized for the way they caught and refracted light, creating a kaleidoscope of color from red to violet and every color in between. In fact, the Romans called the stone “opalis,” which literally means precious stone. They created stunning opal rings, opal earrings and other jewelry with the vibrant stone. Ancient Arabic legend stated that opals were created when lightning came down from the heavens. In most cultures, opals were valued for their ability to protect wearers from disease. The ancient Greeks believed opals were created from Zeus’ tears and gave people the gift of prophesy. Today the October birthstone is considered good luck and are the birth stone for October. Opal Rings are one of the most popular gifts for women born in this autumn month.
The Many Kinds of Opal
All opals are created by liquid silica that leeched into the soil and in cracks in the rock layers below, then hardened in microscopic spheres that capture and refract light. The flashes of color within each stone is referred to as the “play of color.” The greater the play of color, the more valuable the opal. Most opals are cut into cabochon stones with smooth sides and no facets to set off the natural beauty of the stone’s multiple colors.
Caring for Opals
The silica in opals retains some water, making opals a softer stone than other most other gemstones. They need special care, so if you own an opal necklace or opal earrings, it may be time to take them out and give them a bit of TLC. Polishing the stones with a soft cloth can help preserve their luster. You should not clean them with any cleaning agents or immerse them in oil. Because they can dry out over time, you may want to put them in purified water for several hours occasionally to keep them looking their best and prevent cracks or crazing.
Why Our Opal Jewelry is So Special
SuperJeweler has been a proponent of opal jewelry for many years, and is a prime importer of opals from Australia, Hong Kong and Ethiopia. We have dozens of exclusive opal styles, including opal earrings, necklaces and Opal Rings set in 10k and 14k gold, including white gold, yellow gold and rose gold.
Throughout history, the colors captured in opals have been compared to the Northern Lights, the depths of the ocean, a galaxy and much more. At SuperJeweler, you’ll find the gold and opal rings, earrings and necklaces sure to add a universe of color to your jewelry wardrobe.
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