Are Ethiopian opals good quality?
Ethiopian Opal is a new variety of opal discovered in Wollo province of Ethiopia. It is highly valued for its vibrant body hues, bold color flashes and patterns. These opals are superior in terms of quality but are relatively cheaper than the other popular origin varieties such as Australian Opals.
What is Ethiopian opal good for?
Ethiopian Opal Metaphysical Properties Ethiopian opal is believed to be an emotional intensifier, enhancing the true nature of those who wear it. Some say it strengthens the will to live and shields the wearer against negativity, burning off karma.
How much is Ethiopian opal?
10 to 250 per carat
Price of Ethiopian Opal Per Carat On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from 10 to 250 per carat. Of course, lower cost opals will have more inclusions, flaws and duller color.
How can I tell if my Ethiopian opal is real?
Look at the pattern and play of color, it will be tightly bunched together, and under a loop light, there will be no gaps in the pattern. In other words, the flakes of pattern will be so tightly compacted that it appears uniform. Natural opals will have different size flakes within the gemstone.
What is the best opal?
Black opals
Types of opal Black opals are generally considered to be the best in the world due to their dark body tone. Boulder opals are the much lesser known cousin of the black opal, but they can have equally stunning colour.
Is Ethiopian opal as good as Australian?
Ethiopian opal is more available and generally has a wider variety of color especially reds. Ethiopian Prices are lower and the sizes are much larger than Australian. Ethiopian opal is more durable resisting breakage better than all other opal including Australian.
What is the difference between Ethiopian and Australian opal?
Whereas Australian opal is mined from deep beneath the ground, Ethiopian opal grows in large volcanic deposits high up in the hills. What makes this variety so appealing is its stunning play of color, one of the most desirable attributes of opal.
What is the difference between Ethiopian opal and Australian opal?
The most amazing difference between these two forms of Opal: Australian opal loves water and is impervious to most chemicals and the effects of soap/water exposure. Ethiopian opal, when exposed to water, will lose its color play in its entirety, and when it drys the color play returns!