Opal

Opal with its fiery colors takes its name from Latin word meaning “precious stone”. Pliny a learned Roman scholar, descriped opal as having “the fire of the carbuncle, the brilliant purple of the amethyst, and the sea-green color of the emerald, all shining together in incredible union.” The Romans believed it was the symbol of hope and purity. They called opal “cupid paederos” (child as beautiful as love) and thought the wearer safe from disease. The Arabs believed that opals fell from heaven in flashes of lightning and thus acquired their marvelous color. Ancient Greece also believed that opal had the power of giving foresight and the light of prophecy to their owners.
Wedding Anniversary: 13th
Astrological Sign: Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22)
R.I.: 1.45
S.G.: 1.25 – 2.22
Hardness: 5 – 6.5
Toughness: Poor
Care: Avoid heat, chemicals, and ultrasonic
Enhancements: None Common
Principle Sources: Australia, Brazil, Mexico