Opals have been utilized as gemstones since the Middle Ages. Indian Vedic Astrology literature states that they have positive health properties. Even well-known individuals like Queen Cleopatra and Queen Victoria were fascinated by opal jewelry.
These stones have captivated people with their enchanting beauty for a long time. Even today, women are spellbound with opal rings. The shimmering hues of a slender opal ring on a graceful finger catch everyone’s eyes and enhance their beauty.
On that note, let’s take a quick look at the top myths associated with opal rings, and their corresponding truths.
The Scientific Understanding Of Opal Stones
Opal is a mineral and, in technical terms, falls under the mineralogical category of hydrated amorphous silica. It is softer and sports less thickness than quartz, which is especially noticeable due to its rainbow-like splatter of colors.
The uniqueness of opal as a gemstone comes from its shimmery, kaleidoscopic features. However, you should judge an opal’s quality by its transparency, not its opacity. In layperson’s terms, the more transparent the opal is, the greater the cost.
Common Myths And Truths About Opal Care
All experts agree on one thing about opal care – you should be very careful while handling it. By nature, opal is delicate and easily bruised when it experiences force. Usually, when you bruise or crack an opal, its price lessens.
The long-standing trade and use of opal as a gemstone has given rise to some myths about its care. Read the article to let us know 5 of them and the actual facts.
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Myth: you Need To Soak Opals In Water To Prevent Cracking
Truth: It is one of the most common myths about opals. They contain 10%-15% water and get dehydrated over time, but soaking them in water will not bring back the stones’ fresh look and beautiful vibrancy. Soaking in water doesn’t do anything significant – except temporarily hiding the damage of a cracked opal. Some opals are naturally non-porous, meaning they won’t absorb any liquid – water, oil, or others. So, it is not mandatory to soak your opal jewelry in water.
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Myth: Opals Are Extremely Fragile And Can Break Easily
Truth: Opals are more fragile than other stones but not so delicate that they will break at the slightest touch. The wearers’ say that beautifully cut and properly set stones have the strength of glass, so it’s better to choose your ornaments from trusted sources like Rosec Jewels.
Your opal jewelry should be fine if you are engaging in extreme manual labor, participating in strenuous sports activities, or other actions capable of causing bumps and scratches. Additionally, opals don’t break at higher altitudes – so if you want to look fabulous while flying, there is no restriction.
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Myth: opals Need Oil Or Glycerin To Prevent Cracks
Fact: The statement is untrue, as opal is a gemstone, not human skin, which will quickly absorb moisturizer. Some opals, like Australian opals, are non-porous, meaning they absorb no liquid, including oil or glycerin. Applying oil will only make them greasy – it will look shiny and give a slimy effect. It’s better to leave your opal in professionals’ hands – otherwise, their conditions will worsen.
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Myth: Opals can Crack When Submerged In Water
Truth: Opals will not crack immediately upon water exposure, but they may upon prolonged contact. The reason isn’t water but the chemicals, soaps, and lotion you use while swimming or bathing in water. So, it is better to be safe than sorry – and remove your opal jewelry before engaging in water-related activities.
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Myth: Black Opals Are Completely Dark
Fact: if such an opal existed, it would not be very worthy. The term ‘black’ for opal denotes the dark body tone of an opal compared to a white-body or transparent opal. They have a shimmery, colorful body – and high-quality black opals can be more costly than diamonds.
In conclusion
Opal rings have a typical feature – they can absorb and reflect light, transforming each piece of jewelry into a masterpiece one can wear and attain an iconic status. Both celebrities and women love to wear Opal rings to make bold fashion statements infused with elegance.
You can get multiple authentic opal ring options online at well-known jewelry sites like Rosec Jewels.