Characteristics and Properties of Aurora Opal

Aurora Opal is a type of opal with a unique play of colors caused by light diffraction. It is characterized by a background color of blue, green, or black, and flashes of red, orange, yellow, green, and blue. The opal is composed of silica spheres and has a hardness ranging from 5.5 to 6 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness.

1. AURORA
OPAL
CHARACTERISTICS AND PROPERTIES

2. Play-of-Color: One of the most distinctive features of opals is their play-
of-color, which refers to the iridescent flashes of color that appear to
move and change when the stone is viewed from different angles. This
phenomenon is caused by the diffraction of light by the regular
arrangement of silica spheres within the opal.
1.
Color Variety: Opals come in a wide range of colors, including white,
black, gray, blue, green, orange, yellow, and red. The intensity and
distribution of color play a significant role in determining the value and
beauty of an opal.
2.
Transparency: Opals can range from transparent to opaque, with many
opals exhibiting varying degrees of translucency. Transparent opals are
often referred to as crystal opals, while opaque opals are known as
common opals.
3.
Hardness: Opal has a relatively low hardness compared to other
gemstones, with a rating of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. This means that
opals are susceptible to scratching and abrasion and require gentle
handling and care.
4.

3. Body Tone: The body tone of an opal refers to the underlying color of the
stone, which can range from colorless to black. Light opals have a white
or light body tone, while black opals have a dark body tone. The body
tone can affect the appearance and intensity of the play-of-color.
1.
Formation: Opals are formed through the deposition of silica gel in
cavities and fissures within the earth's crust. Over time, the silica gel
hardens and forms opal. Opals can also contain water, which contributes
to their internal structure and can affect their stability.
2.
Metaphysical Properties: In metaphysical and spiritual beliefs, opals are
associated with various properties, including creativity, inspiration,
emotional healing, and enhancing intuition and psychic abilities.
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