Black Opal. 9.16 cwt. Smoke Enhanced. Appraised Retail Replacement: 200.00.

Opal enhanced by smoking. Untreated black opals are extremely expensive. 15.8 x 14 x 8.8. ( if you are not sure how big this is , make certain you check measurements shown in appraisals on a measure marked in millimeters... the standard for measuring gems.) October birthday. Please read the IMPORTANT TERMS AND INFORMATION page at least once as it applies to all listings. ANY questions, please ask.

This is opal from the welo district of Ethiopia. Opal is a hydrated amorphous form of silica, with a water content of about 5 to 10 percent usually. Opals are one of my favorite gems due to their beauty. But, they must be afforded some care to maintain that beauty. About 6.5 on the moh's scale, they should not be subject to harsh abrasion, and because they absorb water caution should be exercised. If you wear them when bathing, the fire may disappear for a while , but will return as the gem dries out. However. if the water is dirty, some impurities may enter the stone....so caution should be practiced. Opal is said to inspire love and passion