stones opals known to mankind for a long time, the history of their use dates back several millennia.It is believed that its name comes from the Sanskrit "fallen", which means "precious stone."It is indifferent to him there, their characteristic shine, as well as a wide palette of colors is simply mesmerizing.
Like many semi-precious stones, opal was popular not always.At various times, he is credited with different properties, from bad to good.For example, in ancient Rome, it was a symbol of fidelity, was considered a source of energy and strength, the Emperor Constantine even rumored that the stones opals can make its wearer invisible to others.From the time they began to disrepute and became the mascot of the thieves.
But at the end of the XIX century in Australia was discovered a large deposit and fashion opals back.People just could not resist his enigmatic splendor and beauty.However, not all of them are so beautiful.And, by the way, later it became a symbol of Opal South Australia, there is still about 90% of mined gems belonging to this group.
Depending on the composition, luster, purity and other characteristics of several varieties of this stone.Most appreciated the so-called precious opal, he already belongs to the precious and semi-precious stones are not.The least expensive is common opal, it is not inherent in a beautiful rainbow shine.In general, it is much more ugly than its noble fellow.As for colors, there are two big groups: white opal - a stone of any light color, and black - a darker or color.
These gems have interesting properties.First of all, they contain a small amount of water, therefore, require special care.Any Opal has on its surface microcracks through which can absorb moisture.On the other hand, it is through them and it evaporates, with opal gradually fades and loses a beautiful shine.Therefore, in order to postpone the issue as soon as possible on a later time, often need to wear jewelry with opal and store them in a damp cotton wool.It is also necessary to protect the stones opals from pollution because it can greatly affect their color.In general, the owners need to handle them very carefully.
It is an example of this gem can see an interesting phenomenon of opalescence - the play of light, which is also characteristic of diamonds.Value opal is precisely how many colors you can see on the surface, at the most expensive of the number is four.So that they can be safely counted among the family jewels.
stones opals are not particularly hardness on the Mohs scale, they are located at around 5.5-6.5.Gems noble varieties generally flat shaped cabochons, in this form, they more fully show its luster and color.
believed that bring disgrace to their owners peace and harmony.It is this stone can help get rid of depression, anger and negative thoughts.It does not matter whether they believe the owners of jewelry, opal stones that have similar properties.Even if they do not become their talisman, they are still very beautiful.
