36Ct Neon Greenish Red Ethiopian Welo Rough Specimen Rough Opal (2024)

FAQs

What is the rarest color of Ethiopian opal? ›

Ethiopian Opal Specimens

The brighter and more intense the color, the higher the price of the opal. Stones with red flashes are rarer than the other colors while the green and blue flashes are more common.

Look for a Play of Color

The “play of color” is what makes an opal so unique and desirable. This refers to the way the stone appears to change color when viewed from different angles. If you don't see any color play, the opal is likely a fake.

While some say black Welo opal is found in it's natural form, based on our research, black Ethiopian opal is dark grey in color and fractures easy. Ethiopian opal can be smoke treated to make it look like black opal and therefore not opal in it's natural form.

Ethiopian Opal Price Per Carat? The price per carat of Ethiopian opal ranges from 10-250 per carat based on the intensity, variety and patterns of color. Top quality gems will have color over the entire surface free of visible inclusions on the top surface of the opal.

In addition to aesthetic and quality factors, the price of opal depends on the type of opal. For instance, white opal is common and costs between $10 and $150 per carat. Black opal is the most valuable opal, ranging between $50 and $10,000 per carat.

Finally, Ethiopian opals also tend to be more durable and stable than other opals. These opals tend to resist damage or breakage more easily. To recap: for a cheaper price, you can get a large and durable, high-quality Ethiopian opal.

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. Don't worry, the fire and color will come back once the Opals have fully dried, which can take a few minutes to weeks, depending on how much water they managed to absorb.

To safely determine if an opal is hydrophane and avoid further propagation of existing cracks, the stone should be examined using a standard gemological microscope and direct transmitted light (with the microscope in brightfield mode).

While some people believe it is unlucky for people not born in October to wear opal, the gemstone has actually long been valued as a stone of luck and magic--as well as love and passion. Ethiopian opal is believed to be an emotional intensifier, enhancing the true nature of those who wear it.

Can you put Ethiopian opal in water? ›

If at all possible, avoid using too much water and instead use a wet cloth. Don't worry if your Ethiopian Opal gets wet. The colour and transparency will alter temporarily, but they will return to their original colour as it dries over a few days.

In the realm of metaphysical and spiritual practices, Ethiopian Opals are often used to enhance intuition, creativity, and emotional balance. They are believed to promote inner transformation, making them valuable tools for meditation and self-reflection.

One of the standout features of the Ethiopian opal is its hydrophane nature. These opals are like the sponges of the gem world. They have porous surfaces that eagerly soak up water, which, believe it or not, turns these otherwise opaque to translucent stones transparent!

Price: Australian Opal is known for being expensive, but it's also considered the most superior and highest quality option on the market. Of course, quality levels vary, which is why it's vital to buy from trustworthy, reputable sellers.

The Colors of Ethiopian Opal

Fire opal - All variations of Ethiopian opal showcase a striking, bright flash of fiery color. However, the body tone beneath the bright colors can vary from black, blue, orange and even white opal.

Among the variety of different patterns found in Australian opal stones is the most rare and expensive harlequin pattern.

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. Don't worry, the fire and color will come back once the Opals have fully dried, which can take a few minutes to weeks, depending on how much water they managed to absorb.

Striking bands called zoning indicate a layered formation, while interspersed colors of precious and common opal represent several of the opal varieties found in the region. While these unique types of opal can be found in Ethiopia, they are incredibly rare.