Crystal opal is translucent / transparent when held up to the light. Often the colours and patterns in crystal opal are more magnificent than black opal – they are just a bit harder to see because they are not highlighted with the darker backing like Black opal is. Crystal opal is highly sort after and is one of my favourite types of opal.
Crystal opal
Crystal Opal
The term "crystal opal" refers to any kind of opal (black opal, semi-black opal, white opal) which has a transparent, translucent, or semi-translucent body. This is also referred to as the "diaphaneity" of a stone. If light is able to pass through the stone, or you can see through an opal, then you are probably looking at a crystal opal. Crystal opals can display any colour of the spectrum in a beautiful play of colour and patterns.
Boulder opals, which have a layer of translucent opal are not referred to as crystal boulder opal because of their solid backing.
Crystal opal on ironstone
The translucence of a crystal opal often gives it a greater clarity and vibrancy of colour than opaque stones. Pale coloured crystal opals (white crystal opals) are generally more valuable than opaque white opals, and 'black crystal opals' can often have more beautiful colour than opaque black opals.
Crystal opal with sand inclusions (galaxy opal)
Crystal opals are generally cut in a standard oval shape if possible, however if the nature of the stone dictates, sometimes a free-form or teardrop shape is cut in order to maximize the size and carat weight of the stone. Crystal opals are also cut with a high cabochon if possible as it enhances the appearance of the colour.
Crystal opal makes for beautiful pendants, rings and earrings.
Seam Crystal Opal
Check out our range of beautiful crystal opal rings, pendants and earrings at our online shop at www.OpalQuest.com
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