Intense light refraction on this high grade Australian Opal.
Opal is a non-crystalline, hydrated form of silica.
On average, the water content is around 10%. If the opal dries out due to exposure, it can become brittle and lose some luster. If you have any opals, periodically soaking them in water will prolong their life and beauty.
Quartz is composed of crystalline silica, giving it an organized structure. Opal, on the other hand, consists of micro silica spheres of various sizes.
These spheres refract light. The color and intensity of the light flash is determined by the way the spheres are packed together. Some opals contain other minerals or grow within a matrix which can affect their appearance.
Opal is the birthstone for those born in October.
It is considered by some to be a lucky amulet that attracts wealth and abundance. Whether or not it holds magic, the light and color pleases the eyes and the spirit.
Australia is known for its quality and quantity of gem-grade opal, which is its national gemstone.
Original images by @ironwood
Beautiful photos of a beautiful gem. Thanks.
😄😇😄
You have really gorgeous shots. I love opal, and this is an entirely different perspective. What is the level of magnification in these pictures? Thanks!
Thank you. These pictures are about 100x. I estimate based on the microscope's 200x maximum. For some reason, 100x magnification of opal makes for better pictures compared to full zoom for there is more light and color present.
What makes it green?
The size of the silica spheres and the space between them determines the color of light.
aha! Good ole light refraction at work. So when you see an opal that has many different colors it just means that the silica spheres within are inconsistently sized and spaced.
Well, specific sizes create specific colors for instance 0.1 micron makes violet, 0.2 micron makes red. And the space between them is a water/silica solution so that has some play on the way the light bends through the opal.
exquisite
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Does it flash at night?
Only if there is light hitting it, otherwise it is as black as night, at night.
Nice to know that. Thanks for answer.