Why Does Opal Change Color?

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 From remote Outback Australia to your doorstep, your new Opal Gemstone has traveled far!

 

Now that you're the official owner, lets discuss why your Opal changes colors. Opal is made up of silica which over millions of years hardened under the earths surface creating trillions of microscopic spheres. Commonly referred to as the "play of color", the light diffracting from these spheres causes the change in color. The more organized that the spheres are, the more brilliant the colored flash. 

 
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Opal is formed from a solution of silicon dioxide and water. As water runs down through the earth, it picks up silica from sandstone,

and carries this silica-rich solution into cracks and voids,

caused by natural faults or decomposing fossils.

As the water evaporates, it leaves behind a silica deposit.

This cycle repeats over millions of years and eventually Opal is formed.

 
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Australia has three major varieties of natural sediment Precious Opal – Black Opals from Lightning Ridge in New South Wales, White Opals from South Australia, and Queensland Boulder Opal.
 
 
 
The many variations in the types of Opal depends on several factors. In particular, the climate’s wet and dry periods create a rising or falling water table which concentrates any silica in solution. 
 
 
 
 
 
 

ABOUT AUSTRALIAN OPAL DIRECT

 

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Australian Opal Direct offers custom designed Opal jewelry reflecting the unique characteristics of each individual rare gemstone. From mining to wholesaling to exporting and retailing, we have over 30 years of experience in the Opal industry. Our location, close to the source and direct from the Australian Opal Mines allows us to provide the best possible Opal Gem at the most competitive price. Additionally, our hand selected designers feature cutting edge design work and craftsmanship setting the most innovative trends for the Opal industry around the world!

Our attention to detail in the cutting process as well as the craftsmanship of each unique piece can be seen throughout the wide selection of bespoke Opal Jewellery. As individual as you or I, Opal offers pieces within everyone's budget.

At Australian Opal Direct, we pride ourselves in not only having a wide range of quality Opal Jewellery as well as the most desirable bespoke collections of Opal at the best possible prices. Featuring outstanding customer service, our friendly staff is dedicated to answering your questions and will respond to any email that is received within 24-72 hours, 7 days a week. To reach us, please email info@australianopaldirect.com

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