The word "Opal" for this dynamic gemstone was derived from the Greek word "opallus" which means to see a change in color. And also Opal takes its name from the Latin word Upala meaning precious stone.

Since the 14th century, people believed it to be the "king of gems" because an opal holds within its fire all the colors of the rainbow.

According to legend, the wearer of an opal will be urbane and courteous and protected from the wrath of others. The stone was also reputed to make its owner invisible to foes and thereby exempt from misfortune. The Arabs believed that opals fell from heaven in flashes of lightning. Ancient Greeks also believed the opal had the power of giving foresight and the light of prophecy to their owners. Cleopatra is said to have worn an opal to attract the attention of Mark Anthony.

Black opal has been regarded as an exceptionally lucky stone.

As the birthstone for October, the Opal stands for hope. Opal is symbolic of faithfulness and confidence. And the powerful energy radiating from this fiery gemstone will surely illuminate any occasion! Opal is given to commemorate a 14th wedding anniversary.

Since natural Opals have high water content, they should be gently cared for and not exposed to extreme fluctuations in heat, or humidity. Do not store them in extremely dry conditions over the long term.

However our Lab Grown Opals are coated with Lucite, so they are Guaranteed to not dry or crack, ever! No Worries!

Special thanks to www.gemsbrokers.org, www.gemstone.org, www.americangemsociety.org for information on Opal.