“Opal – Symbol of Hope and Happiness”

Opal is a beautiful gemstone given as a symbol of hope, trust and Happiness. It derived its name from the Latin word opalus, which means “seeing jewel”. It is also believed to derive its name from a Sanskrit word upala, which means simply a stone. An opal along with tourmaline is the birthstone for the month of October and is also a stone for Zodiac Sign Libra. It is the anniversary stone for the 14th and 18th years of marriage.

Today’s supply of opal mainly comes from Mexico, United States and Australia. More than 90% of the world's quality opals come from Southern Australia. But can also be found in other parts of the world such as Brazil, Czechoslovakia, Nevada and Idaho.

From semi-transparent to opaque Opal occurs in different colors. The Crystal or water ones have a colorless body; the white ones are the most common ones. Black opal has a dark blue, gray, or black body color and these are the most valued ones. Boulder opal combines precious opal with the ironstone in which it forms. Bright yellow, orange, or red fire opals are quite different from the other varieties of opal. Translucent to transparent tones of these stones are beautiful with or without play of color.

Healing properties: - An Opal gem is believed to be a great healing stone. There are many healing properties that are attached to it. It is believed to encourage living, feelings and action, with faithfulness and loyalty. It also helps in understanding mysticism. In the Pre-historic times it was considered to cure eye diseases.

Type of opals possesses excellent healing properties.
Fire one is corrects red corpuscle & blood disorders, fights with depression, apathy, and lethargic attitude.
Black one is believed to work for reproductive organs, spleen & pancreas; it aids white corpuscles; bone marrow; and depression.
White one balances left and right brain hemispheres for neuro disorders; and also stimulates white corpuscles.

Mystical power: - Opals are also believed to possess mystical powers. The Black ones in particular have great mystical powers. It is said to increase mental capacities such as creative imagination. Black ones when worn in gold necklaces and pendants near to the heart are said to protect one from the evil eye and protect travelers on journeys to far away lands. An opal is regarded as an extremely lucky stone. In ancient times it was accepted as a symbol of faithfulness and confidence. They have been used as magic potions to heal the body, ward off bad dreams, and used an energy enhancement tools.

Opal is a wonderful gemstone prized for its unique play of color, the ability to diffract light into flashes of rainbow color.