We find it detestable to show a disapproving behavior towards opals, specifically by believing in certain myths of it. All myths are not true and we’ll reveal why in this post. Opals are so exquisitely beautiful, their name is said to have come from “Sanskrit Upala” meaning “Precious Stone” and later has been derived from the Greek term “Opallios,” meaning “to spot a transformation of color.” Guess who’s the birthstone of October? Opal! which has gained great prominence in history.

Introduction to Opals

Opal is defined as a mineral which is a hydrated amorphous silica. It is softer and less thick than a quartz and stands out due to its rainbow-like splatter of colors. Opal is considered unique than most stones due to its shimmery, iridescent features and a good-quality opal is judged by its transparency – not by how milky it looks.

Decoding Some Opal Myths

Myth: To prevent cracking – you need to soak opals in water.

Fact: This is the most common myth out there. To be honest soaking opals in water doesn’t do anything significant except than hiding the damage temporarily of an already cracked stone. Australian opals are non-porous, indicating they do not soak up oil, water, or anything else. It is not a requirement to soak your opal jewelry in water. Yes, opals do contain 10% – 15% water and can get dehydrated over time but soaking it in water is no means to redeem the fresh vibrancy of the stones. 

Myth: Due to Opals’ extremely fragile nature – they can break easily.

Fact: Yes, it is true that Opals are delicate than most jewels, but they’re more than what meets the eye. Their hardness and breaking ability matches that of a glass – you’ll experience the feeling if you wear a glass. However, you must be alert while having it on and do not indulge in any laborious, sports-based or other strenuous activities that might put opals in contact with hard surfaces. If your opals are in a safe place, trust me they’ll remain fine for a long time.

Myth: To avert cracking – Opals needs to be rubbed with oil or glycerin.

Fact: No, Australian opals are non-porous, they do not absorb oil or any liquids. So, it will be pointless to use oil to increase the longevity of opal stones. This act will only render opal greasy – you might find them looking shiny but slimy as well. Opal does not behave like skin that will submerge facial moisturizer in minutes. So, for Heaven’s Sake, don’t do anything to your opals without some study, or professional consultation – you’ll only make their condition worse.

Myth: Water can damage solid opals.

Fact: Large majority of opals are normally stable and have a very low chance of cracking. Low-quality opals are weeded out the moment they are mined, since, the companies keep an efficient quality-checking policy. Though, believing that opals will get cracked due to becoming wet is useless – but it might hinge back in quality if opal jewelry is exposed to humidity, lengthy hours in water, or harsh sunlight. So, in a way jewelry protection is due and you must take off all jewelry when soaking up in the sun, having a dip in water, indulging in a sweaty activity, or taking a shower.

Myth: Black Opals are black completely.

Fact: If a full black opal exists, it must be completely worthless in value. Black opals have a shimmering, colorful body and the term “black” is only used to refer to the dark body tone of an opal as compared to a milky/white body toned opal. Each opal has its own value and high-quality black opals can be more valuable than diamonds.

Myth: Opals cannot be enhanced in color.

Fact: To rely upon uncertain methods like rubbing toothpaste, soaps, detergents, oils, baking soda, polish, rose water or using hot lights to get your opals bright and shining like new can be tremendously dangerous because you may not know how opals will react to the chemicals contained in these products. They might gleam briefly after applying these techniques but it won’t take long for opals to retain back to their old, faded appearance. It is best to avoid these ways of glossing your products, they can do more harm than good. Just try to care for your opals from the beginning and they’ll last for a long time or get professional help.

Myth: Opals are bad luck.

Fact: Really? Who told you that? Believing in old’s wives’ tales and shillyshallying about a gemstone is simply a helpless case but we’ll try our best to erase your archaic thoughts. First of all, such things aren’t true and don’t have a legit confirmative. This is just certain history that has clouded the minds of many but it is not bad to explore superstitions and relative myths. It is good to learn, only till it agrees to the rules of common sense!

So, instead of appraising your opals with condemnation, try them out with your outfits. Come on, experiment with your style, let opals illuminate your inner light, and pleasantly tingle your feminine instincts.

Conclusion

“Care begins from the start and lasts for an eternity”

- Azura Jewelry