The Queen of Gems and October Birthstone

Often celebrated as the “Queen of Gems,” the opal is one of the world’s most enchanting gemstones, admired for its iridescent play of color and timeless symbolism. From ancient legends to modern luxury jewelry, opals have fascinated cultures across generations. 

At Multi Gems & Jewellery Dubai, we honor opals for their natural rarity, elegance, and the way each stone reflects a universe of colors within.

The History and Origin of Opals

The word Opal comes from multiple roots: the Latin Opalus, the Greek Opallios, and the Sanskrit Upala, all meaning “precious stone.” Revered throughout history, opals were believed by the ancient Greeks to grant prophecy and protection, while Arabic folklore described them as gems falling from the sky during lightning storms.

Though today Australia supplies 95% of the world’s opals, discoveries date back thousands of years. Archaeological findings show opals were mined over 10,000 years ago in North America and used in African artifacts 6,000 years ago. Beyond Australia, precious opals are also found in Ethiopia, Mexico, Brazil, Peru, Indonesia, and parts of Africa.

How Are Opals Formed?

Unlike crystalline gems such as sapphires or rubies, opals form from silica and water, creating unique internal structures that diffract light and produce their famous rainbow flashes.

Precious opals contain uniform silica spheres that reflect vibrant colors, while common opals are typically opaque or milky in appearance. This process, taking millions of years, ensures that no two opals are ever identical.

Symbolism and Meaning of Opals

Across cultures, opals are seen as symbols of hope, purity, and transformation. Europeans treasured them as a sign of truth and faith, while modern gemology recognizes opals as the October birthstone, making them a meaningful gift for birthdays, anniversaries, and romantic occasions.

Varieties of Opal Gemstones

Opals occur in a breathtaking spectrum of types and colors:

Black Opal 

The rarest and most valuable, displaying vivid flashes of color against a dark body. Mostly mined in Lightning Ridge, Australia, black opals are prized for their dramatic patterns and brilliance.

Fire Opal 

Known for fiery orange, red, or yellow tones, often transparent or translucent. Found in Mexico, these opals symbolize passion, energy, and good fortune.

White Opal (Milk Opal) 

A lighter stone with soft flashes of color, often symbolizing hope and emotional balance. Popular for high-end opal jewelry.

Crystal Opal

Characterized by its transparent body and dazzling play of colors, crystal opals are highly sought after for luxury fine jewelry.

Boulder Opal

Found in Queensland, Australia, these opals form within ironstone boulders, displaying striking color contrasts.

Water Opal / Hydrophane Opal

Rare stones that absorb water and become more transparent, often symbolizing renewal and transformation.

Moss Opal (Dendritic Opal)

Known for unique fern-like patterns, representing growth and new beginnings.

Contraluz Opal

Mostly from Mexico, these opals display vivid colors when lit from behind, making them rare collector’s treasures.

Each type of opal carries its own beauty, rarity, and metaphysical properties, from enhancing creativity and emotional healing to fostering intuition and spiritual awareness.

Opals in Jewelry

With their radiant flashes of color, opals are a favorite for luxury opal jewelry in Dubai, including engagement rings, statement pendants, earrings, and bespoke creations.

From black opal rings set in platinum to fire opal earrings in rose gold, each piece is truly one of a kind. Opals pair beautifully with diamonds, creating dazzling contrasts that highlight their natural brilliance.

Value and Authenticity

The price of opals varies depending on color, quality, size, and rarity. Black opals and fire opals command the highest values, while white and common opals are more accessible. As with all gemstones, authenticity matters buyers should always seek certified opals in Dubai to ensure purity, ethical sourcing, and true value.

At Multi Gems & Jewellery, every opal is carefully examined and certified for authenticity, giving our clients complete confidence.

Final Thoughts

Opals are more than just gemstones they are natural masterpieces, capturing the beauty of light and color in ways no other stone can.

Whether you’re searching for an October birthstone gift, a rare collector’s gem, or a luxury piece of opal jewelry in Dubai, Multi Gems & Jewellery offers only the finest, ethically sourced opals designed to last for generations.