`15.71Ct ContraLuz Scenic Inclusion Ethiopian Welo Specimen Crystal Opal (2024)

FAQs

What is the significance of the Ethiopian opal? ›

Many believe that Ethiopian opals represent hope and inspiration. Apart from this, some believe that the mesmerizing play of colors within these stones symbolizes the many facets of life and the countless possibilities it holds.

Ethiopian opals are more than famous for its purported psychic powers. It's said to also bestow psychic abilities like precognition and communication with the higher spirits. Ethiopian opals are believed to enhance one's intuitive abilities. Ethiopian opals could also help you have a lucid dream.

While these unique types of opal can be found in Ethiopia, they are incredibly rare. The majority of precious Welo opal is light yellow, white, or translucent - body colors that showcase a vibrant rainbow effect created by the interplay of light.

Absolutely! And it just so happens to be a stunning gemstone. Ethiopian opals were first discovered in the northern Shewa province in 1994.

There is a large quantity of Ethiopian opal available which has kept the price low. Like most gems the top quality material is quite rare and commands a high price. The intensity of the color is what makes this opal valuable as the best Ethiopian opal have colors that are described as unreal looking like colored L.E.D.

Does Ethiopian Opal turn yellow? If Opals are left in water and allowed to soak it up, they may lose their fire temporarily and turn yellow or brown.

Opals are too delicate for everyday wear.

Ethiopian opals are much more porous, meaning when exposed to water, they will absorb it, which can lead to color loss and cracking.

Keep Opals Away From Water

If the Opals come in contact with water, they will soak it up like a sponge. If the Opals are submerged in water and allowed to absorb it, they may lose their fire temporarily and turn yellow or brown. The fire and color should come back once the opals have fully dried.

Practitioners of energy work say it activates the base and sacral chakras, although other base colors of this opal can be used with corresponding chakras if needed.

Protect your opal jewellery by not by not exposing it to extreme heat or cold. Welo opal must be kept dry, and should never come into contact with any liquid, water, chemicals, perfumes or humid environments. Welo opal is a hydrophane opal, these opals can absorb moisture resulting in the colour changing.

Which is better, Ethiopian or Australian opals? ›

Australian opal, especially opal from Lightning Ridge and Coober Pedy, is generally much more expensive and valuable than Ethiopian opal. Top quality Australian opals can sell for over $10,000 per carat.

Look for good color play: One of the most important factors to consider when buying an Ethiopian opal is its color play. Look for an opal that displays a range of colors when viewed from different angles. The more vibrant and intense the colors, the more valuable the opal is likely to be.

Fake Opal or synthetics will usually be 'too perfect' and look man made. A natural opal will have less systematic patterns. They will also sometimes have a difference of colour or brightness across the Opal. Look for what gemologists call 'Columnar' structure or 'snake skin' pattern.

Ethiopian Opal Metaphysical Properties

Enhancing Creativity: Ethiopian Opal is believed to stimulate creativity and inspiration. It is said to encourage artistic pursuits and the free flow of ideas. Emotional Balance: This gemstone is thought to help balance emotions and promote inner peace.

Unlike Australian opal, most Ethiopian opal is hydrophane. This term denotes the gemstone's ability to absorb water and change color after absorption. A lower specific gravity creates a more porous stone capable of absorbing enough water to enhance the gem's weight by up to 15%.

It maintains peace and generates calm energy to reduce tension from the body. African blue opal meaning focuses on clearing thoughts and encouraging better communication.

Ethiopian opals are some of the rarest gems in the world. Not coincidentally, they are also some of the most in-demand gemstones on the market. When you first hear that a particular gemstone is in-demand, you might think one geographic region exclusively supplies the product.