Gemstones have always captured the fascination of people from all walks of life. One of the most captivating of them all is opal, known for its unique play of color and light. Opal occurs in a variety of colors and patterns, and one of the most enchanting forms is the opal light. In this article, we will explore the beauty and properties of opal light and gain a deeper understanding of this captivating gemstone.
What is Opal Light?
Opal light is a type of opal that comes in translucent to semi-translucent light-colored hues, including white, yellow, and green. This type of opal is known for its soft and delicate appearance that seems to glow with a soft inner light. Opal light is also referred to as “white opal” or “milky opal” due to its milky appearance.
How is Opal Light Formed?
Opal light is formed from a combination of silica and water, found in sedimentary rocks. As water seeps into the ground, it picks up silica from the rocks below. Over time, the silica-rich water gets trapped in the tiny spaces between the sedimentary rocks, forming opal.
The unique play of color and light that opal is famous for is due to the way the opal is formed. As the silica-rich water settles into the cracks and spaces between the rocks, it forms a layer of silica spheres. The size and arrangement of these spheres determine how the light that passes through them will be scattered, which creates the play of color that makes opal so unique.
Properties of Opal Light
Color and Clarity
Opal light is typically found in light-colored hues, ranging from white to pale yellow, and occasionally green. The color of opal light is due to the presence of small amounts of impurities, which give it its subtle tint. The opal is usually translucent to semi-translucent, which lends it a delicate and ethereal appearance.
Hardness and Durability
Opal has a hardness of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, which means it is relatively soft compared to other gemstones. Opal light is more prone to cracks, chips, and scratches than harder gemstones like diamond, sapphire, or ruby. It is also sensitive to heat, light, and chemicals, so it must be handled and cared for meticulously.
Healing Properties
Opal light is believed to have several healing properties, including:
- Enhancing intuition and psychic abilities
- Cleansing and balancing the chakras
- Boosting self-confidence and self-esteem
- Supporting emotional healing and releasing negative energy
Uses of Opal Light
Opal light is primarily used for jewelry making. The delicate appearance of opal light lends itself well to dainty and feminine designs, especially when combined with gold, silver, or other gemstones. Opal light is also believed to be an excellent gemstone for wedding and engagement rings, symbolizing purity, innocence, and new beginnings.
In addition to jewelry making, opal light is sometimes used in decorative objects, such as figurines, vases, and lamps. Its soft and gentle appearance is particularly suited for creating an atmosphere of relaxation and tranquility.
