Stunning 1.10ct solid white Mintabie Opal set in sterling silver, size 7.25.
This ring was custom-made with love for Jay Mc Kenzie, Jono’s partner.
A permit from the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara is required to access Mintabie, as the land is owned freehold by the resident Aboriginal people. Opal mining is no longer permitted on the land.
Opal is a gem, a semi-precious stone that comes in many shimmery, partly translucent colors. If your birthday is in October, opal is your birthstone.
Opal is a mineral made of silica, and it's found within the cracks and notches of many different kinds of rock. Most of the world's supply of opal comes from Australia. A polished opal that's been set in a ring or necklace is usually several shades or colours — most often blues and greens — with sparkles or shimmers decorating the stone. The word opal comes from the Latin opalus, and its ultimate root is probably the Sanskrit upala, "precious stone."
The opal represents justice and is a protective stone in dangerous places. Opal has always been associated with love and passion. It can also act as an emotional stabiliser.
Zodiac: opal is the zodiac stone for Cancer, Libra, Pisces, and Scorpio, and it is the astrological gemstone for the sign of Virgo.
Chakra: opal channels projective energy that can benefit all chakras.
Element: opal is assigned to the element of fire, although it can enhance all of the elements.
Caring for your Opal Jewellery
Here are some simple but important things to keep your opal jewellery looking its best
- This opal ring is Solid or Natural Opal and will not be affected by water.
- Oils and face creams will not damage your opal jewellery, but a build-up of these products may reduce its shine and clarity.
- Avoid constant abrasives, scrapes, or a hard knock as this could damage your opal jewellery.
- Avoid ultrasonic cleaning
- Avoid sudden change in temperatures
- Most of all…enjoy your opal jewellery.
Opal hardness is variable depending on its exact composition and formation conditions, and ranges from 5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. Its toughness is very poor to fair, making opal a gem that is suitable for jewelry but requires care when wearing so as to not scratch or break the stone.