Sanskrit is where we can establish the etymological origin of the term opal that concerns us now. Specifically, it emanates from the word “úpala”, which can be translated as “precious stone”.
However, the Greek word “opallios” was derived from that word, which is synonymous with “stone good for the eyes,” and from it the Latin noun “opalus” was produced, which is equivalent to “jewel of different colors.”
In our language the concept became opal : this is the name for a siliceous mineral that can be found in different shades.
Opal has a structure similar to that of quartz , although it has water inside. Although it is hard, it is also brittle.
There are different types of opals, which can be opaque or translucent. Thanks to the microscopic particles that make them up, they have the ability to reflect light rays and convert them into rainbow tones.
In addition to everything indicated, it must be emphasized that opal is considered to be a mineral that has certain significant properties. Specifically, it is believed that it stimulates creativity, improves self-esteem and even enhances a person's spontaneity.
The noble opal , for example, is almost transparent. The sunflower opal , meanwhile, is yellowish, while the fire opal stands out for its bright red.
In addition to these opals, there are others that are also very significant. This would be the case, for example, of green opal, which is considered to help regenerate emotionally and also rejuvenate any relationship.
Blue opal, for its part, is believed to improve communication skills while black or gray opal seems to help process all the emotions one has.
Likewise, don't overlook white opal, which is believed to help strengthen the heart, and pink opal, which is considered a good tool for a person to focus on their life. emotional and professional.
The different varieties of opal can be found in countries such as Australia , Mexico , the United States , Honduras , Venezuela , Brazil , Peru , Tanzania and Ethiopia .
The extraction is carried out from sedimentary rocks through manual work. Most opal is obtained from Australian deposits.
It should be noted that the most common use of opal appears in the field of jewelry . The play of colors that is produced from the reflection of light and that varies according to the angle of observation is its most appreciated characteristic.
It is also interesting to know that in this area of jewelry, opal is associated with the fourteenth year of marriage and predicts good fortune.
This particularity is called opalescence . As the light passes through the various layers of the stone , an effect is produced that surprises observers. Thanks to this quality, many jewelry is made using opals.
To preserve the characteristics of the opal, it is important that it does not lose water . That is why it is necessary to protect the gem from very dry environments, excessive heat and abrupt changes in temperature.