PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
- GROUP Silicates - tectosilicates
- COMPOSITION SiO2·nH2O
- COLOR Colourless, white, orange yellow, red, white or dark blue
- CRYSTALLINE SYSTEM Amorphous
- CRYSTALLINE HABIT Massive
- HARDNESS 5 - 6
- FRACTURE Conchoidal
- EXFOLIATION Null
- GLOSS Vitreous
- STRIP White
- TRANSPARENCY From transparent to translucent
- SPECIFIC GRAVITY 1.92 - 2.3
- REFRACTIVE INDEX 1.37 - 1.47
MINERALOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS
The fire opal is a variety of opal with a reddish orange color. Its color is due to the presence of iron oxides. The opal is a mineraloid made up of hardened silica gel. It contains between 5 and 10 percent water and its structure is usually compact and amorphous.
The opal is characterized by its reflective effect, due to the latticework of the microscopic particles that compose it, through which the light passes showing flashes of color. The opal that presents color games is called noble opal, and is highly valued for making jewelry.
The opal is found in cavities of volcanic rocks, in deposits of hot springs and in accumulations. It is also often found in the form of fossilized wood.
Deposits: Australia, Ethiopia, Mexico, United States, Peru, Canada and Slovakia.
THERAPEUTIC PROPERTIES
The fire opal is considered a stone of personal power. It enhances the internal fire and amplifies the energy. It helps to let go of the past and provides protection in dangerous situations. The fire opal helps in business and favors changes and progress. Activates creativity and spontaneity. At a curative level, it is usually used to relieve premenstrual syndrome.
