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Opal
Gemstone Information
Information * Loose gemstones
* Jewelry links
Opal is a birthstone for the month of October and the gemstone representing the 14th and 18th wedding anniversary. In ancient times, opal was recognized as a symbol of faithfulness and confidence. The brilliantly colored opal was said to have magic powers because of its play of many colors. It was known to strengthen eyesight, protect against contagious diseases, ease sadness, and turn pale in the presence of poison. Opal symbolizes magic, love, hope, happiness, and truth.
View
examples of cut
opal below and prices in our store section.
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ENHANCEMENT CODE N
Click to view
AGTA code.
PROPERTIES
Refractive
Index 1.45
Hardness = 5-6.5
Specific Gravity =2.15
Species - Opal.
Optic Character - Single Refraction, Aggregate Double
Refraction-Common.
Phenomena - Play of color.
WARNINGS FOR CARE
Ultrasonic: Never
Steamer: Never
Heat: Very poor; may cause cracking
Chemicals that
harm: Hydrofluoric acid
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Crystal Structure
Crystal system: Amorphous. Kidney or grape shaped aggregate.
MAJOR SOURCES
Australia |
Birthstones |
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January |
Garnet |
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February |
Amethyst |
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March |
Aquamarine |
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April |
Diamond |
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May |
Emerald |
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June |
Pearl/Alexandrite |
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July |
Ruby |
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August |
Peridot |
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September |
Sapphire |
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October |
Opal/Tourmaline |
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November |
Topaz or Citrine |
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December |
Blue Topaz or Zircon |
Cabochon
is the popular cut used in jewelry for
opals.
Cabochons are smooth polished surfaces not
faceted. |
Marquise cut.
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Round cut. |
Oval
shape. |
Pear
shape.
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Heart
shape. |
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