Black opals are exceptionally rare in that they are known to form in only one place: Australia. Boulder opal is found in cracks, crevices and cavities. Silica from dissolved sand trickled down cracks and crevices in ironstone boulders and the silica precipitated out of solution. Generally, the opal is found within boulders which need to be broken open. These are found in clay layers just above the ironstone.
These gems have been considered for thousands of years to be extremely lucky and the most uplifting of the Opals, bringing Light into the aura. It eases distress and dissolves depression and hopelessness, helping one face their darkest fears and to release that which is holding one back. Linking the Root and Crown Chakras, Black Opal connects one’s highest spiritual aspirations with one’s physical body, making it a powerful magnifier of intention and manifestation. It is a protective stone for deep inner work, and has been thought to cure ailments of the eye and improve vision.
It was Shakespeare who gave black opals their moniker, “The Mother of All Gemstones", and the depth of its mysterious beauty definitely causes one to ponder one's origins. Just gaze into this stone, and you will see every color in the rainbow spanning the face of the black opal. Turn it over, and you will observe the stone surface of the boulder. Set in a 14 karat yellow gold shank with floral and leaf motifs, it is the perfect ring for anyone born in October, and for any opal collector!
Originally a small cameo pin, the setting of this ring is in 10 karat gold. The shank is an antique replica in 14 karat gold, and the cameo has been replaced by this fabulous opal.
Details (approximate)
Size (can be resized): 6.5
Weight: 2.59 grams
Materials: Gold, Opal
Metal: 14K yellow gold (replica shank); 10K yellow gold (original element)
Marks: None
Condition: Excellent antique condition commensurate with age and wear