Opals are one of the most fascinating and captivating gemstones in the world. With their shimmering, multi-hued appearance, they have been prized for thousands of years for their beauty and symbolic meaning. In this article, we will explore the meaning and significance of Opals and provide tips for choosing and caring for your Opal jewelry.
Play of Colors in Opals
Opals are formed from silica and water and are typically found in desert regions where groundwater is scarce. Opals are known for their play of color, which is a phenomenon where the gemstone appears to change colors as it is moved and viewed from different angles. This effect is caused by the way that light is diffracted through the microscopic silica spheres that make up the stone. This unique characteristic has led to Opals being associated with magic, mystery, and transformation throughout history.
Ancient and Modern Significance of Opal gemstone
In ancient times, Opals were believed to possess supernatural powers and were often used for divination and healing. They were thought to bring good luck and protect against evil and were even used as a remedy for various ailments. Opals were also associated with the god of the underworld in Greek mythology, as they were believed to have the power to grant invisibility to their wearers.
Today, Opals continue to be prized for their beauty and symbolic meaning. They are often given as gifts to mark special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, and weddings and are believed to bring happiness, love, and good fortune to their wearers.
Quality Parameters of Opal
When choosing an Opal gemstone, there are several factors to consider, including the stone's color, clarity, and cut. Opals come in various colors, from white and colorless to black, and can also have a range of secondary hues, such as red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple. The clarity of Opal is also important, as it can affect the stone's play of color. Finally, the cut of the Opal can also impact its appearance, with some cuts emphasizing the stone's play of color more than others.
The Durability of Opal gemstone
Opals are a relatively soft gemstone, with a hardness of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. As a result, Opals should be handled with care and protected from scratches and impacts. It is also important to avoid exposing Opals to extreme temperature changes or chemicals, as these can damage the stone.
Best Setting for Opal stones
Regarding jewelry settings, Opal stones are often set in simple and elegant designs that showcase the stone's natural beauty. Popular options include solitaire rings, pendant necklaces, and stud earrings, all of which allow the Opal's iridescence to take center stage.
Caring Tips for keeping Opals clean
To care for your Opal Ratna, it is important to avoid exposing the stone to heat, chemicals, and extreme temperature changes, as these can cause the stone to crack or lose its play of color. Opals should also be stored in a cool, dry place and cleaned with a soft, damp cloth to remove dirt or oils.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Opals are beautiful and meaningful gemstones that have been cherished for centuries. Whether you are looking for a gift for a loved one or a new addition to your jewelry collection, an Opal will bring joy and magic to your life. By considering the stone's color, clarity, and cut and taking proper care of your Opal, you can enjoy the beauty and symbolism of this stunning gemstone for years to come.
Where to Buy Opal gemstones in India
Opals must be purchased from a reliable vendor because many con artists are operating in the gemstone industry today, selling heat- or smoke-treated Opals to unsuspecting customers. In addition to offering certificates for the gemstones so that consumers can understand the true value of the gems they are trying to buy, Navratan delivers the top quality Opals to the clients at the best costs. Experts in the field of gemology at reputable labs like IGI, Gubelin, and many more have carefully validated the information on the certificates offered by Navratan. Also, Navratan, the online gem bazaar, offers an excellent shipping facility to deliver gemstones to the houses of customers.
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