Ethiopian opals have become real competition for Australian opals in recent years. These gemstones, which are mainly found in the Wollo region of Ethiopia, fascinate with their intense play of colors and unique structure. Compared to Australian opals, they are still relatively new on the market, which makes them all the more interesting. Here is an overview of the special features and charm of Ethiopian opals.

Origin:

In the 1990s, the first opal deposits were (re-)discovered in Ethiopia. Colour-intensive 'opal nuts', mostly with a brown base colour, came onto the market from the Mezezo province. These collector's items delight many mineral enthusiasts; unfortunately, due to their tendency to crack, they are hardly suitable as gemstones when untreated.
In the province of Welo (also called Wello or Wollo), near the village of Wegel Tena (3200 m above sea level), a thin opal-bearing layer embedded in ignimbrite was discovered in 2008 in a rock face several hundred meters high.
Only the local population is authorized to mine opals. They are organized in cooperatives that act as a link to the global market.

Nature of Welo Opals:

Are hydrophane opals: can absorb 3-10% water (is reversible without after-effects) Stability: for opals very stable against cracking and impacts Colors: whole rainbow color spectrum
Colour intensity: matt to extremely bright, sometimes metallic shine Pattern: great variety – most of the colour patterns known from Australia or Mexico; new are, for example, honeycomb-like patterns or colour cells that contain the entire rainbow colour spectrum (rainbow prisms) Body colour: mostly light grey to white, also yellow to brown or bluish; opaque to crystal clear Moss hardness: 5-6

Incomparable variety of colors

Ethiopian opals impress with their strong, almost fluorescent play of colors, which can shine in all the colors of the rainbow - often even more intensely than Australian opals. These stones display bright blue, green, red and yellow tones and can appear vibrant even in low light.

hydrophane property

Ethiopian opals are often so-called hydrophane opals. This means that they can absorb water and thereby change their color and transparency. When dry, they can appear milky and opaque, while when wet they become clearer and more colorful. This makes them more sensitive to moisture, but also opens up exciting optical effects.

affordability and growing market value

Compared to Australian opals, Ethiopian opals are often more affordable, making them accessible to many collectors and jewelry lovers. However, due to their beauty and increasing popularity, prices are rising, and many experts believe Ethiopian opals will become increasingly valuable in the future.

Unique structures and patterns

Ethiopian opals often have fascinating patterns, including so-called "honeycomb" or "fire" patterns, which are extremely sought after. Such patterns are created by the natural growth of the stone's silica gel structure and make each opal unique.