36 products
36 products
G Marie Luxuries Opal Jewelry in Virginia Beach
Opal, a hydrated amorphous form of silica, is celebrated for its captivating ability to diffract light and exhibit a play of multiple colors. The primary types of opal—black opal, white opal, boulder opal, and fire opal—are distinguished by their unique base colors and the vibrancy of their color play. Australia is a major producer of opals, contributing about 95% of the world's supply, with other notable sources in Mexico, Brazil, Ethiopia, and the United States. Opal is the birthstone for October, symbolizing hope, innocence, and purity.
The gemstone is particularly renowned for its play of color, or iridescence, which arises from light diffraction caused by microscopic silica spheres within the stone, resulting in a spectrum of hues. Among the most famous opals is the "Olympic Australis," known for its impressive size and vivid colors, and the "Andamooka Opal," a regal piece presented to Queen Elizabeth II, which highlights the exquisite beauty and royal allure of this gemstone.
FAQs
Opals are formed from a solution of silicon dioxide and water. As water runs down through the earth, it picks up silica from sandstone, and this silica-rich solution deposits in cracks and voids, eventually solidifying into opal.
Black opal is the rarest and most valuable type of opal, prized for its dark body tone which provides a stunning backdrop for color play, enhancing vibrancy and visibility.
The value of an opal is determined by its color play, the brightness and pattern of the color, body tone, size, and transparency. Black opals are generally the most valuable.
Yes, some opals are treated to enhance their appearance, typically through dyeing or impregnation with oil, wax, or plastic, but these treatments can affect their value and durability.
When purchasing opal jewelry, look for vibrant play of color, a pleasing pattern, good brightness, and minimal inclusions or faults. The cut and setting should enhance the stone’s natural beauty without exposing it to potential damage.