#Beaded band dendrite opal full

In rare circumstances, Opal formed in masses exhibiting botryoidal growth, in stalagmitic form, or became replacement material in fossils. It is amorphous, meaning it has no crystalline structure and no definite chemical composition and is therefore considered to be a “mineraloid” rather than a “mineral.” Over time, this gelatinous mix seeped deep into fractures, veins and between the layers of underground sedimentary rock, and the solidified material, Opal, formed as much of the water evaporated. Opal is hydrated silicon dioxide – submicroscopic silica spheres bonded together with water and additional silica, sometimes containing the minerals cristobalite and tridymite. It was also called opallios in Greek, meaning “to see a change in color,” pederos meaning “the child of love,” and paederos “the delicate complexion of a lovely youth.” The opalus came to be known as ophthalmos, or ophthalmius, in the Middle Ages – “The Eye Stone,” a term which helped in part to reflect its ophthalmic virutes. The term opal is adapted from the Latin opalus, but is believed to originate from the Sanskrit upala, meaning “precious stone.” References to the gem by Pliny the Elder suggest it may have related to Ops, the wife of Saturn and goddess of fertility. It is a karmic stone with a reminder that what one sends out will return. Opal also illuminates the positive actions and emotions of the self, enhancing the good and true, and fostering one’s highest potential. While magnifying one’s negative attributes may prove to be uncomfortable, it allows for understanding how destructive these emotions can be and assists the process of letting them go. Just as Opal absorbs and reflects light, it picks up thoughts and feelings, desires and buried emotions, amplifying them and returning them to the source. Opal is most known for its ability to bring one’s traits and characteristics to the surface for examination and transformation. Opal enhances cosmic consciousness and stimulates flashes of intuition and insight, yet is a protective stone for deep inner work, meditations, and lower world shamanic journeys. It enkindles optimism, enthusiasm and creativity, and allows for the release of inhibitions inspiring love and passion.

#Beaded band dendrite opal full

In the metaphysical world, Opal acts as a prism within the aura, bringing a full spectrum of Light energy to the system, soothing and clearing the emotional body, and boosting the will to live and the joy of one’s earthly existence. Traditionally, it is also the gift given for a 14th wedding anniversary. Despite the superstitions, Opal was redeemed in the twentieth century, and is today an absolute favorite gem, especially as the birthstone for those born in October.

Yet for all its beauty and enviable desire, this “Queen of Gems’” reputation, for a time, fell from grace – linked with rumors, misfortunes and mysterious fatalities.

It was considered by all in the ancient world to be the most bewitching and mysterious of gems, worn for its virtues of soothing and strengthening the sight, healing diseases of the eyes, and capable of providing great luck, as it possessed all the virtues of the gemstones whose colors reside within it. The Roman historian, Pliny the Elder, described opalus – the Opal, as a precious stone containing the fiery flame of the carbuncle (Garnet), the resplendent purple of the Amethyst, and the sea-green glory of the Emerald – all shining together in incredible union and exquisite pleasure. Oh, the spectral delight that is Opal, the “Eye Stone.” Like lightning in a rainbow, it flashes its brilliance with even the slightest movement and claims notice by all who witness its phenomenal “fire.” This is a stone so dedicated to the eye, so pleasing to the sight, it inspires love and hope, innocence and purity, luck and happiness. Shop for Opal Introduction to the Meaning and Uses of Opal Your On-Line Guide to The Healing Energies, Metaphysical Properties, Legendary Uses and Meaning of Opal The Crystal Vaults Comprehensive Illustrated Guide to Crystals