Origin – Being one of the most sought-after sources of Opal, Australian opal represents a premium in the price range of Rs 700 to Rs 25000per carat ($10 to 350$ / carat)On the other hand, Ethiopian,of comparatively cheaper quality ranges from Rs 500 to 2,000 per carat ($7 to $28). And, Mexican and brazillian opal too cost fine as it has a lustrous and a different orange color.
Color – The most valued opal is probably judged by its color. A bright stone in pure deep color holds more value. Whereas, the dark-colored opal stones even with a certain design and colorful display may produce only an average price.
Treatment – Opal can be treated with the infusion of oil, wax or plastic. Opals are also dyed but this makes them less valued astrologically. Always go for original gemstone certificates from Government labs where the treatment of the specific gemstone is clearly mentioned in the comments box.doublets and triplets of opal are common in the market. Don’t get dodged by its fire always ask for the certificate of reputated lab.
Clarity – The cost of a genuine opal usually decreases due to the appearance of a white or cloudy background. The cost of a crystal opal increases with the rise in transparency. For opaque gems, like white opal and dark black opal, the presence of eye visible inclusions, pits or blemishes reduces the price immensely.
Shape – Precious opal is usually shaped into round, oval or pear shape. Opal prices rise for specific cuts like marquis, heart and rectangular due to the carat wastage included in the process.
Treatment – The Market is flooded with cheap sugar-smoke treated and fracture filled opals. Hence, it is necessary to buy gemstones from a trusted dealer or online store at the best prices.
The color, fire pattern clarity & the transparency all are important factors in deciding the quality of an Opal gemstone.
Origin– Australia have the best found Opal gemstones. The Opal from Australia is widely popular throughout the world for its bright hue and rich fire pattern. The next popular opal variety can be found in Ethiopia. Generally not recommended for astrological gem therapy because it has not as white as Australian opal and due to its porous structure it is not advisable to wear Ethopian opal for astrological benefits.
Color– The most important factor in deciding the price of the Opal gemstone is its color. A pure white Opal with hues of fire is the most valued Opal. However, orange, black, green, blue and pink opal are also present but the white opal having a fire is the most preferred for astrological purposes. An Opal having dark colors like Blue, Green or Black is also highly desirable as it displays perfect play-of-color above their dark background.
Role of Fire in the Opal– The presence of fire is the main distinguishing element between a plain & a precious Opal. Precious opal has a bright & consistent fire which makes it highly desirable compared to the fainted and the pale play of colors in the plain Opal which also reduces its market price. These Opals are cheaper but don’t possess astrological benefits. Opals having broad, sparkling and vivid flashing patterns are rare and hence, expensive as compared to the small & pinfire patterned opal.
Shape– In order to make gem quality Opals, it is cut & polished from a rough stone. Make sure to avoid purchasing Opals that have too high or too flat domes as they become more vulnerable to cracks while being customized in jewelry.
How do I differentiate between Australian and Ethiopian Opal?
Opals from Australia and Ethiopia are very different in terms of quality. Australian Opal gemstone comes in bright base color with rich and colourful fire flashes that are eternal. Comparatively, the fire in Ethiopian opal is less intense and mildly unstable. Being hydrophane by nature, Ethiopian Opals absorb moisture and lose its fire momentarily during humid season. Therefore, it is always recommended to buy the best quality Australian opal in order to ensure maximum astrological benefits.
Does the color of fire have any astrological effect?
Yes, it does. The colour and intensity of the fire influence the opal gemstone’s metaphysical features. Generally, Opal is the gemstone for planet Venus. But according to the astrologers, the color of fire also influence the Opal’s astrology. The color of fire that shows power in the flashes is more likely to give results of the associated planet. For instance, if the red is more prominent in the fire, then the opal will also attract the energies of sun whereas if blue is the dominant color in flashes, then Saturn positive energies will also get combined. An opal showcasing a full spectrum of colors in the fire is considered best from the astrological perspective.
Why does the Ethiopian Opal lose its fire during the humid season?
Opal from Ethiopia, mainly the Ethiopian Welo Opal is a hydrophane variety which absorbs water or moisture. If these opals are soaked in water or overexposed to moisture, they ‘lose’ their fire. However, once it is dried in natural conditions, the opal retains its original color and state. It is important to note that artificial attempts to speed up the drying process should be avoided as it can create some internal cracks inside and can mess with the Opal stone beauty.
Which one is better for Astrological purposes- Zircon or White Opal with fire?
Zircon is more preferred as an astrological substitute of Diamond. White Opal with fire is the next preferred choice to get the positive effects of planet Venus. Astrologically, it is always recommended to wear the primary gemstone to get quicker and better results. Being an Upratna, Zircon and White Opal is less effective and takes more time to show its astrological benefits in wearer’s life. Sometimes you need opal while in some cases white zircon play a vital role . So it is advisable to consult our astrologer to get the best recommendation .