About Opals Colours: Opalescent with internal sparks of colour. Hardness: 5 1/2 - 6 1/2

Common Opal is a mineral found in abundance and as a filler between many varieties of rocks. It resembles Quartz, but is softer. Precious Opal (seen at top), however, is quite rare and sources seem to be limited to the Western United States and Mexico. Dark coloured Opal with a vivid play of colour is referred to as Black Opal. Opals with a pale colour and a vivid colour play are referred to as White Opals. Fire Opal (seen at left) is the name given to the orange to red variety with an internal play of colour. Wood Opal (seen above) contains concentric bands similar to that seen inside of a tree. The appearance of coloured sparks within the Opal are caused by interference of light, not body colour. Opal tends to be fashioned into Cabochons, but Fire Opals can be faceted.

Opal derives its name from the Sanskrit word Upala, which means precious stone.

Opal is the birthstone for October.