| Opal Gemstone Information Information * Loose gemstones * Jewelry links Opal is a birthstone for the month of October and the gemstone representing the 14th and 18th wedding anniversary. In ancient times, opal was recognized as a symbol of faithfulness and confidence. The brilliantly colored opal was said to have magic powers because of its play of many colors. It was known to strengthen eyesight, protect against contagious diseases, ease sadness, and turn pale in the presence of poison. Opal symbolizes magic, love, hope, happiness, and truth. |
|||
ENHANCEMENT CODE N Click to view AGTA code. PROPERTIES Refractive Index 1.45 Hardness = 5-6.5 Specific Gravity =2.15 Species - Opal. Optic Character - Single Refraction, Aggregate Double Refraction-Common. Phenomena - Play of color. WARNINGS FOR CARE Ultrasonic: Never Steamer: Never Heat: Very poor; may cause cracking Chemicals that harm: Hydrofluoric acid |
Crystal Structure  Crystal system: Amorphous. Kidney or grape shaped aggregate. MAJOR SOURCES Australia |
Birthstones | |
| January | Garnet | ||
| February | Amethyst | ||
| March | Aquamarine | ||
| April | Diamond | ||
| May | Emerald | ||
| June | Pearl/Alexandrite | ||
| July | Ruby | ||
| August | Peridot | ||
| September | Sapphire | ||
| October | Opal/Tourmaline | ||
| November | Topaz or Citrine | ||
| December | Blue Topaz or Zircon | ||
| Cabochon is the popular cut used in jewelry for opals. Cabochons are smooth polished surfaces not faceted. Common Cut Examples. |
