Opal
ExploreMineral
Opal
Opal is a colorful stone that sparkles with many colors, just like a rainbow! Each opal is unique.
Appearance
The Opal is famous for its stunning 'play-of-color,' a rainbow flash of iridescent hues that shifts with light and angle. It often appears milky white, blue, or black, but can be found in almost any color, resembling a solidified rainbow. This unique visual effect makes it stand out from other gems.
KingdomAnimalia
Category
MineralRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
Be the first to snap!
Interesting facts
Did you know NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter found opal deposits on the surface of Mars?
Opal is the national gemstone of Australia, which produces over 90% of the world's precious opals.
Some ancient cultures believed opals were formed when lightning bolts struck the Earth!
Unlike most gems, some opals can dry out and crack over time if not properly cared for!
Special abilities
Ability
Rainbow Weaver
Opal has microscopic silica spheres that diffract light, creating a dazzling 'play-of-color' that shifts like a living rainbow.
Ability
Water Holder
Opal is hydrated silica, meaning it contains water. This makes it surprisingly lighter than other gemstones of its size.
Measurements & details
- Color Range
- white, black, blue, green, red, orange, yellow, pink, brown, colorless, play-of-color
- Hardness
- 5.5
- Luster
- vitreous to waxy
- Specific Gravity
- 2.1
Traits
Fluorescent
Fluorescent minerals emit visible light when exposed to ultraviolet light or other non-visible radiation, a phenomenon called fluorescence.
Gemstone
A gemstone is a piece of mineral crystal which, when cut and polished, is used to make jewelry or other adornments.
Crystalline
Crystalline describes a mineral or rock composed of crystals, often exhibiting a regular atomic structure and geometric external form.
Natural
Natural refers to organisms, materials, or phenomena existing or produced by nature, not artificially created.
Also known as
Common OpalFire OpalPrecious Opal
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Handle gently and avoid sharp edges. Ask an adult before picking anything up.
Frequently Asked Questions
What colors can Opal be?
white, black, blue, green, red, orange, yellow, pink, brown, colorless, play-of-color
How hard is Opal?
5.5
What kind of luster does Opal have?
vitreous to waxy
What is Opal's specific gravity?
2.1
Snap Map
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Recent Snaps
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