Opal name was probably derived from Sanskrit “upala“, meaning ”valuable stone“. This was probably the root for the Greek term “opallios”, which translates as “colour change”. In the days of Roman antiquity there existed a so-called “opalus”, or a “stone from several elements”. Opal is a herdened silica gel containing 5 - 10 percent water. It can though dry away and crack. Opals are not very hard: they only achieve 5.5 to 6 on the Mohs’ scale. Therefore they appreciate a protective setting. In earlier days Opal’s sensitive surface was often oiled, but today also sealing them with
colourless artificial resin has become quite popular.Numerous legends and tales surround this colourful gemstone, which can be traced back in its origins to a time long before our memory, to the ancient dream time of the Australian aborigines. It is reported in their legends that the creator came down to Earth on a rainbow, in order to bring the message of peace to all the humans. And at the very spot, where his foot touched the ground, the stones became alive and started sparkling in all the colours of the rainbow. That was the birth of the Opals. For ages people have been believing in the healing power of Opal. It is reported to be able to solve depressions and to help its wearer find the true and real love. There are two varieties of opal - precious opal, which shows flashes of colors depending upon the angle of viewing and "Potch opal" which is opaque and flashes no colors. Opal fills cavities in sedimentary and igneous rocks. Australia has been the main producer of opal since 19th century. Other sources of opal are USA, Brazil, Mexico, and southern Africa.
