Opal, the traditional birthstone for October, is a gemstone steeped in history, mythology, and captivating beauty. Celebrated for its unique “play-of-color,” this gem has inspired awe and wonder for centuries, evolving from a symbol of hope and purity in ancient cultures to a modern emblem of creativity and individuality. This article will delve into the origins, geological properties, historical significance, and care of this remarkable gemstone.
History and Lore
The story of opal begins in India, where the gem was first sourced and known as upala, a Sanskrit term meaning “precious stone.” This name eventually transformed into opalus in ancient Rome. Throughout history, opal has been imbued with diverse meanings and beliefs. Ancient Greeks believed the stone bestowed the gift of prophecy and offered protection from disease. Indian mythology recounts a tale of the Virgin Goddess of the Rainbow being transformed into an opal by the Mother Goddess, pursued by Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.
European cultures long considered opal a symbol of purity, hope, and truth, believing it embodied the virtues of all colored stones due to its kaleidoscopic display of hues. However, a more recent, and less substantiated, reputation arose suggesting opal was unlucky for those not born in October. This belief stemmed from the gem’s relative softness and susceptibility to breakage, rather than any inherent mystical property. Despite this later association, opal has consistently been regarded as a stone of luck and magic for much of its history. It is also traditionally given to celebrate the 14th wedding anniversary.
Geological Formation and Sources
Opal is unique in its formation, being a hydrated amorphous form of silica. It’s essentially hardened silica gel containing a variable amount of water – typically between 3% and 21%. This composition results in a gem that ranges from translucent to opaque, displaying all colors of the spectrum. Its hardness falls between 5.5 and 6.5 on the Mohs scale, making it softer than many other gemstones. The specific gravity of opal ranges from 1.98 to 2.20, and its refractive index is 1.450.
While originally sourced from India, today, Australia is the world’s primary source of opal, and is home to many of the most famous examples of the gem. The sources provided do not detail other significant mining locations.
Gemological Properties
The most defining characteristic of opal is its “play-of-color,” the iridescent flashes of color that appear to dance within the stone. This phenomenon is caused by the diffraction of light as it passes through microscopic spheres of silica within the gem. The size and arrangement of these spheres determine the colors observed. Opal exhibits all colors, and can be found in a wide variety of patterns and intensities.
Opal can occur in several forms. Natural opal is the most prized, but opal doublets and triplets are also common. Doublets consist of a thin slice of opal glued to a base material, while triplets feature a slice of opal sandwiched between two layers of clear quartz. These composite stones offer a more affordable way to enjoy the opal’s beauty. Some opals are also treated by impregnation with oil, wax, or plastic to enhance their color and stability.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, opal has been associated with a range of symbolic meanings. It is linked to the sacral chakra, and imbalances in this energy center are believed to contribute to addictive behaviors. Opal is said to moderate and harmonize sexual desire, and is often seen as a symbol of hope, purity, and truth. The “fire” within an opal is believed to spark creativity, and its dynamic play-of-color is thought to encourage enjoyment of life.
Ancient mystics believed opal could inspire artistic expression, perhaps due to its diverse color palette. The gem is also associated with emotional depth and is considered beneficial for those born under the zodiac signs of Libra and Scorpio, supporting balance and enhancing emotional understanding, respectively.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its relatively soft nature and potential for water absorption, opal requires careful handling and cleaning. The safest method for cleaning opal is with warm, soapy water. Harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners should be avoided, as they can damage the gem or any filler material present in doublets or triplets. Prolonged exposure to water should also be avoided, particularly for composite opals, as it can weaken the adhesive bonding the layers together.
Opal can fracture if exposed to high heat or sudden temperature changes. It is recommended to store opal jewelry separately from harder gemstones, such as diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds, to prevent scratching. Soft pouches are ideal for protecting opal from damage during storage.
Conclusion
Opal remains a captivating and historically significant gemstone. From its ancient origins in India to its modern-day status as a beloved October birthstone, opal has consistently inspired awe and wonder. Its unique play-of-color, coupled with its rich symbolism and intriguing geological properties, ensures its continued appeal to gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and those seeking a connection to the beauty and mystery of the natural world. Its delicate nature necessitates careful handling, but the rewards – a shimmering, iridescent gem that embodies hope, creativity, and individuality – are well worth the effort.