The October birthstone Opal Stone is an incredible and a special astrological gemstone due to various interesting facts associated with it. But it’s more than just an October birthstone. Let’s see why.

Water Content in Opal Stone

The exact theory proving the origin of the opal or doodhiya patthar is not clear. However, it is believed that it is the stone formed by rain. Experts believe that that silica was carried down into rock crevices by heavy rains, thus initiating its creation. Once the water evaporated, only the silica deposits were left behind in the form of gel that solidified over billions of years. The traces of water in an opal can be ranging between 5 to 20%.

Australia- It’s Main Origin of Natural Opal

It is estimated that nearly 95% of the world's opal comes from Australia, the main regions being New South Wales and Queensland. It is no surprise that in 1994 this precious stone was declared to be Australia's national gemstone.

Varieties of Colour

Opals are popular for its striking plethora of colours and beauty and are categorized as precious and common. There are many different varieties of opals as per its colours but precious opals have two basic colours – the background and the other is the play of colours. The background colour is due to impurities present in silica. On the other hand, precious opals come in popping colours such as a fiery red, orange, yellow, blue, green or purple or they mimic a slew of colours that are pleasing to the eyes.

The Primary October Birthstone

Opal got a position of an official birthstone in October, 1912 by The National Association of Jewellers. Opal has been a clear winner for the month of October since the 15th century after a long time debate as to whether opal or tourmaline gemstone represented this month.

Rainbow Colour

Viewing the gem from different angles, you can see flashes, rays and a variety of colours. This signature play of colour of an original opal gem is the result of the refraction of light passing through tiny silica spherical particles that originally formed the opal gemstone. The spaces available between the spheres actually determine the different hues that we see. An original pure opal can reflect all the colours of the rainbow. 

Treatments

Unlike many other gemstones that are treated to bring out their inner beauty, opals are mostly left in their natural state without much treatment. Some basic works like fracture filling and smoke treatment can be done to darken the stone.

Hardness of Opals

On Mohs scale of hardness, Opal or doodhiya patthar ranks 5.5 to 6.5 out of 10. This means they are more fragile than the other astrological natural gemstones. This calls for proper care and safety while handling and holding this stone.

One can find an extensive collection of exquisite and natural opal stone at the renowned Brahma Gems store. You can buy best quality government-authorized gems from its online store as well.

Read more: Opal Stone vs. Other Gemstones: What Makes Opal Stone (Doodhiya Patthar) Unique?