Opal
Opal comes in three main varieties: opaque to translucent gems with play of color (Australian opal); transparent to translucent gems with or without play of color (crystal opal & fire opal); and opaque gems of a single body color (blue opal & pink opal). Opal is one of the birthstones for October.
The ancient Latin name for Opal was "opalus" which is from the Sanskrit "upala" meaning "precious gem." Australian opal with play of color is the most widely recognized of all the opals. Transparent opal with or without play of color comes from Oregon, Mexico, Brazil and other locations, and is classified here as either crystal opal or fire opal. Opal is often found as flat lenses, or thin layers, so bigger pieces, usable for carving, are rare and valuable. Opals are a fairly fragile gem and care should be taken when considering the appropriate setting.
