Opal
Opal, the kaleidoscope of the gemstone world, dazzles with its myriad of colors and iridescence. With a hardness ranging from 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, opals possess a delicate beauty that requires gentle care. Composed of hydrated silica, opals exhibit a unique structure that diffracts light to create their mesmerizing play-of-color. Found in regions such as Australia, Ethiopia, and Mexico, each opal bears the distinct characteristics of its birthplace, from the fiery reds of Lightning Ridge to the milky blues of Coober Pedy. Steeped in enchanting lore, opals have been revered by cultures worldwide for their mystical properties and captivating allure. From ancient Roman beliefs in the opal's ability to bestow foresight to Aboriginal legends of opals being born from the tears of the rainbow serpent, these gemstones hold a rich and storied history. Embrace the enchantment of opal, a symbol of imagination and boundless possibility.