8.82Ct Multi Color Play Ethiopian Welo Opal Rough J2920/R2 (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.

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 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.

It comes from Ethiopia's northern Welo (or Wello) District. A range of deposits in the area offer a range of opal types, including types found at Australia's Coober Pedy mines! In 1929, anthropologists ascertained some evidence of opal in caves of Kenya, with some pieces being used for tools.

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 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.

When you purchase opals for investments, these will come with a certificate of authenticity. Because these gems are rare, they are excellent items for a long-term investment. These are also stunning gemstones that you will want to admire frequently.

Can Ethiopian Opals get wet? Ethiopian Opals are "hydrophane", which makes them thirsty for water. If they come in contact with water, they will absorb it like a sponge. Absorbing too much water may result in unwanted changes to your Opals.

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.

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.

What is special about Ethiopian opals? ›

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!

The Ligure (or the opal) had on it the name "double fruit." How rich and how varied are the colours seen in this precious stone; and how rich and diverse were the traits of the heavenly life manifested in the Son of God in Manhood, and how richly and profusely His glories shine from the place in which God has glorified ...

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.

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.