Stones used in jewelry, as a rule, have their own history. Sometimes they are accompanied by legends. One of the most expensive and appreciated by the masters of minerals is fire opal, the photo shows how fascinatingly beautiful this stone is.
Mineral deposits
Rich deposits are found in the USA, in the countries of South America, Hungary, Czech Republic, Turkey, Kazakhstan, in Russia (in Kamchatka and Transbaikalia) and in Japan. But they are not always suitable in their qualities for the manufacture of jewelry. Often stones contain flaws, but they beautifully refract light. Nevertheless, in ancient times in India, Persia and among the Indians, they were considered a symbol of great love. The Mayans and Aztecs used fire opals to create mosaics. They were decorated with household items and places of worship of the gods. They called it the bird of paradise stone .
The mineral is mined in Australia and Mexico, where it is recognized as the most valuable national stone. Its deposits are found among volcanic rocks, in basalt, marl, rhyolite, limonite, and sandstone. There are very large sizes. For example, with the fist of an adult man.
Colors of Fire Opal
Its color is very beautiful, fire opal can be bright orange, yellow, fiery red. A light brown hue is less common. Stones are divided into transparent or translucent. Connoisseurs love the golden, warm light that they emit. Therefore, they are also called "golden opals."
The structure of the stone is soft. But jewelers can create real works of art. They frame it in such a way that there is no need to worry about the strength of the product (rings, bracelets). Opals are divided into opalescent (they are processed in the form of cabochons) and expensive opalescent fire opals, they are valued more due to their color and the play of light. One glance is enough to love them. They are subject to cutting only if they have transparency. At the same time, they are processed taking into account the play of light in order to preserve all the beauty.
The stone may change over time. Much depends on the place where he was found. The mineral that was mined in a drier place will last longer. It will also be more durable.
Characteristics of the opal and its care
Silica fire opals consist of a large proportion of water (it can be from three to twenty one percent). They belong to mineraloids. Unique color is achieved due to the admixture of iron. With long wear of jewelry with them, they can grow old and cloudy from the effects of the environment. They are affected by artificial light, they are susceptible to heat, acids, alkalis and can be scratched with a sharp object. Some problems can be fixed. To do this, it is enough to polish the stone. If in the process of wearing it loses the moisture contained in it, it can be lowered into water for some time and this operation should be repeated periodically.
One of the beliefs calls fire opals stones that bring happiness. They cause a sense of harmony and have a beneficial effect on the psyche. As in ancient times, and now these gems are at the peak of fashion. Insets of precious opals adorn jewelry: pendants, earrings, brooches and rings.