The opal is one of the most beautiful of gemstones, flashing ever-changing colors from all ranges of the spectrum at our eyes. They shine like diamonds with a much larger variety of color and pattern. Opal stones range in color from clear to white, yellow, orange, red, blue, green, rose, pink, slate, brown, olive, magenta and black. Of these, the most rare are the black opals and those with red hues. The most common are the white and the green opals. Enjoy these stunning photos of rare and vibrant opals! |
There are two variety: precious opal, which shows flashes of color or iridescence, depending on the angle of viewing and light; then there is common opal which is often opaque and displays no iridescence. The iridescence of precious opal is caused by the way the structure, or regular arrangement of tiny silica spheres, diffracts light. |
It was only 50 years ago, during the 60's, that a team of Australian scientists, analyzing the various opal stones with an electron microscope discovered the cause of the beautiful stone's unique visuals. It was discovered that small spheres from silica gel caused interference and refraction of light, and these in turn created the amazing hues and color play of the opal.
|
Some opal stones flash in myriad colors when exposed to light, such as this amazing Ethiopian opal who was only recently discovered, and looks for all the world like a scene from some underwater world when held against the light. It is called the 'Welo Opal' for that area of Ethiopia, and is priced per carat highly enough to compete with the most expensive rubies, emeralds and diamonds. |
|
The opal is a unique stone in that it is not crystalline in nature, but made of hardened silica gel, and containing about 5-10% water. It's name comes from the ancient and now extinct language of Sanskrit, from the word "upala" which means "precious stone". 90% of all opal stones are mined in Australia, while the other 10% can be found in Brazil and Mexico.
|
The opal is also known, historically, as a very lucky stone, especially the black opal. It was thought to ward off the evil eye and grant travelers protection on their voyages. It guards your dreams from nightmares and focuses your mental abilities and energies.
|
It was also thought to have psychological benefits, such as increase your inner confidence and aid in the 'casting away' of emotions and behaviors you wish to rid yourself of.
|
The Most Unusual Aspects of Life in Germany – 15 Pics
Germany is full of famous and spectacular places. However, these images shoe some of the unique and quirky aspects of life in Germany.
These Photos Have Amazed the World...
From the epic majesty of our galaxy to the pure, simple beauty of a tortoise interacting with a butterfly, these photos are wonderful.
11 Amazing Woodworking Projects For You to Admire
Take a look at some deftly crafted wooden masterpieces that will surely blow your mind.
These 10 Endangered Species Are In Dire Need of Help!
There has been much talk about the rapidly declining numbers of many species world over. This is what's being done to help.
Each of These Photos is Real and Stunning
Our planet is a truly magical place, enjoy this stunning collection of photos of our planet, none of which are Photoshopped!
Watch a Thai Chiropractor Fixing a Spine With a Hammer!
Thailand is a country that's known for specializing in many different kinds of massages, but would you dare be massaged by a man wielding a hammer?
Nostalgia: The Unforgettable Commercials of the 60s & 70s!
These classic television commercials from the 60s and 70s are a must watch!
I Wish They Taught Me These Math Tips at School
Bad at math? Learn how to use these quick and easy methods.
Be Prepared! These Facts About the World Are Pretty Scary
These facts are incredibly fascinating... but they've got an element of spookiness to them too!
A Fascinating History of Clothing in the Ancient World
Ever wondered what fashion was like in the ancient world?
This Brilliant Talk Taught Me to Let Go of My Delusions
Isaac Lidksy has had quite an amazing life of success, which he puts down to a stunning realization that blindness gave him. Watch. You won't be disappointed.
Have You Been Believing These Christmas Myths Too?
Read on for several myths about Christmas stories and traditions.
8 Creative Musical Instruments Made from Natural Materials
Here are some wonderful musical instruments that are made of natural materials.
I Just Wanted to Let You Know: I'm Thinking of You
Is there anyone in your life whom you're thinking of deeply right now? Send them a little greeting to let them know.
You'll Need a Second Look For THESE Photos...
These fascinating photo illusions will make you believe like you're seeing one thing, but they actually depict something very different
1 Day in Pompeii: Experience That Fateful Day!
One day in 79 AD the city of Pompeii was tragically destroyed by an extraordinary volcanic eruption. This video shows you just how the scene would have unfolded.
Who Said You Can't Train Cats?
Suki the cat is getting some agility training. If you thought cats cannot be trained, this is documented proof that notion is false. You just need to give them the right motivation, or in other words - use food...
11 Relatively Unknown Peculiar Jobs That No Longer Exist
Here is a collection of lesser-known jobs that are now obsolete. Some of them may sound unusual or even funny; even though they are real.
8 Historical Coincidences That are Too Bizarre to Be Fake
Throughout history, there were many events that could only occur due to incredible coincidences. Here are 8 of history weirdest coincidences, these stories sound stranger than fiction.
9 Different Types of Oranges You Never Knew About
How many of these unique orange varieties have you tried?
Full Documentary: The Fascinating History of the Dark Ages
Watch this fascinating documentary that sheds some great insight into how Rome fell, and what the Dark Ages actually consisted of.
14 Nostalgic Pics to Take You Back to the Good Ol’ Days
These photos will instantly trigger your nostalgia.
Kyle the Goose Simply Refuses to Leave Her Savior's Side
Mike Jivanjee seems to have gotten more than he bargained for when he rescued Kyle, the Canadian goose, from drowning in Lake Oswego. Check out this cute video.
The Many Ways Companies Try to Avoid Age Discrimination Claims
Companies who are looking to ditch their older employees can be creative in the ways they do so in order to avoid discrimination claims. Here's how...
These Photos Prove How Strange of a Country South Korea Is
The following images illustrate how strange of a place Korea is.
This Famous Speech is Still Amazing Today!
One of the greatest speeches ever made, for the love of freedom, the love of human beings.
10 Emmy-Winning Netflix Shows You Don't Wanna Miss...
if you're in need of a binge-worthy series and haven't explored these recommendations yet, prepare to be captivated.
The Stories Behind these Historic Swords are Fascinating
Discover the legends behind these historic swords
12 Beautiful Quotes that'll Make You Smile and Grin
If you want a smile, you've reached the right place...
5 Unexplained UFO Encounters That Puzzled Experts
We may not believe in UFOs, but throughout history there have been some rather strange UFO-like encounters that defy logic.
Can You Spot the Camouflaged Creatures in These Photos?
These wonderful animals have gone into hiding. Can you find them? If not, just click on the photo to reveal all!
20 Stunning Photos That'll Bring Happiness to Your Day
without saying anything, here are 20 photos that say a thousand words.
Collection: The Greatest Moments in History
A collection of fascinating, sometimes controversial and surprising stories from the annals of history. Explore and learn about the fascinating past of humanity and some of its most outstanding figures.
From Ages 7 to 93 these People Share Tips on Ageing Gracefully
Watch people of all ages offer words of wisdom to their younger counterparts.
Juggling Legend Kris Kremo Will Leave You in Awe
Get ready to be thrilled by juggling legend Kris Kremo’s captivating performance.
The Art of War by Sun Tzu: A Beautiful Summary
Sun Tzu's the Art of War is still perhaps the greatest treatise on military strategy ever. This animated short explains the book in under 10 minutes.
After Reading This, You'll Want to Move to Finland!
This article takes a look at how the Finnish government makes ordinary life extremely comfortable for its citizens.
How Many of These Facts About Common Items Do You Know?
Do you know about these facts for common products?
These 3 Breakthroughs Are Making Historians Jump for Joy!
Learn about some of the most fascinating findings that archaeologists and historians have recently uncovered. Get ready to be amazed!
These Amazing Illusions Are Enough to Make Your Head Spin
Optical illusions have the potential to highlight how the human mind plays tricks when it comes to perceiving things. Take a look at these 20 optical illusions.
How Many of These Extraordinary History Facts Do You Know?
We bet that you didn't learn these history facts at school.
Mark Twain's Tips For a Better Kind of Life...
Mark Twain was not only a talented writer but a man of wise, witty words. Here are 12 of his best quotes.
Did You Know How Incredible You Were in Your Youngest Days?
Your baby self was incredible! Here are some facts to back this statement up...
12 of the Most Fascinating Creatures in Norse Mythology
The world of Norse mythology is full of bizarre mythical creatures. Let’s take a look at the most fascinating ones.
What Would YOU Do In This Situation?
What would you do if you saw the experiment in this video?
You Won’t Find Maps Like These in Geography Textbooks!
Explore this collection of 20 new and updated maps on a variety of fascinating subjects!