Opal is the national gemstone of Australia with 95% of the world’s opals coming from that continent. It is said that the name opal came from the Greek word ‘Opallios’ which means to see a change of color. Interestingly opals are formed from rain and usually contain 10-20% water. As the water runs down through the earth, it collects in the cracks inside rocks. Most of the water then evaporates and forms a silica deposit that eventually turns into opal.
Opal’s unique quality is the play of color that occurs when light hits. White opals get their name from the background color, which is white. The flashes of color change, much like a kaleidoscope, providing a beautiful show to anyone looking. When opal is cut for jewelry, much care is taken to emphasize the play of color that is so unique to this stone, and no two opals can ever be alike.
Loose White Opal Gemstones
Wedding anniversary: 12th / 14th
Mohs hardness: 5.5 – 6.5 / 10
You will also like: moonstone
Looks great in: rose gold / white gold / platinum / silver
