Opal
Opal, commonly known as "opalus" (meaning "a
stone") in Latin is
the birthstone
for the month of October. Opal is found in various shimmering colors
with
elegant flashes of yellow, orange, green and many more. The opal is
often
considered to be the most beautiful and desirable of all gems because it
is
highlighted with all the colors of the rainbow.
Opal is formed from particles called amorphous silica which is found
between the
cracks in rocks. This birthstone is very brittle and sensitive to heat
so this
gemstone can be molded in any form.
Opals were first discovered in 1872 in the deep caves of Australia.
Opals are
also found in Mexico, U.S and many other countries. This gemstone
captures the
imagination and inspires legends - a fantastic gem for jewelry and
gifts.
Ancient
Traditional Birthstones
- Arabic:
Aquamarine
- Guardian
Angel:
Tsuriel
- Hebrew:
Aquamarine
- Hindu:
Coral
- His Talismanic
Stone: Agate
- Polish:
Aquamarine
- Roman:
Aquamarine