About Ethiopian Opals
In recent years, Ethiopian opals have become a real competitor to Australian opals. These gemstones, mainly found in Ethiopia's Wollo region, captivate with their intense play of color and unique structure. Compared to Australian opals, they are still relatively new to the market, which makes them all the more interesting. Here's an overview of the special features and charm of Ethiopian opals.
Origin:
In the 1990s, the first opal deposits were (re-)discovered in Ethiopia. From the Mezezo province, intensely colored 'opal nuts', mostly with a brown body color, entered the market. These collector's items delight many mineral enthusiasts; however, due to their tendency to crack, they are unfortunately hardly suitable as untreated gemstones.
In the Welo province (also called Wello or Wollo), near the village of Wegel Tena (3200 m.a.s.l.), a thin opal-bearing layer, embedded in ignimbrite, was discovered in 2008 in a several hundred-meter-high rock face.
Only the local population is authorized to mine the opals. They are organized into cooperatives, which serve as a link to the global market.
Properties of Welo Opals:
Are hydrophane opals: can absorb 3-10% water (is reversible without after-effects) Stability: very stable for opals against cracking and impacts Colors: Full rainbow color spectrum
Color intensity: dull to highest luminosity, sometimes metallic luster Patterns: great variety – most color patterns known from Australia or Mexico; new ones include, for example, honeycomb-like patterns or color cells that contain the entire rainbow color spectrum (rainbow prisms) Body color: mostly light grey to white, also yellow to brown or bluish; opaque to transparent Mohs hardness: 5-6
Unparalleled Variety of Colors
Ethiopian opals impress with a strong, almost fluorescent play of color that can radiate in all rainbow colors – often even more intensely than Australian opals. These stones show vibrant blue, green, red, and yellow tones and can appear lively even in dim light.
Hydrophane Property
Ethiopian opals are often so-called hydrophane opals. This means that they can absorb water, thereby changing their color and transparency. When dry, they can appear milky and opaque, while when wet, they become clearer and more colorful. While this makes them more sensitive to moisture, it 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 that Ethiopian opals will become even more valuable in the future.
Unique Structures and Patterns
Ethiopian opals often exhibit fascinating patterns, including so-called "Honeycomb" or "Fire" patterns, which are extremely sought after. Such patterns result from the natural growth of the stone's silica gel structure and make each opal unique.
Opal care
When caring for Ethiopian opals, there are a few things to consider, some of which differ from those of Australian opals:
- Avoid water and moisture: These opals absorb water, which can not only temporarily change their color but also increase the risk of cracks when they dry out again. It is therefore important to remove jewelry before showering or swimming.
- Protect from creams and body oils: Creams and body oils can penetrate the stone, similar to water, affecting both its appearance and structure. Ideally, Ethiopian opals should be worn in jewelry with a fully enclosed back to minimize direct skin contact.
- Gentle cleaning: A soft, dry cloth is all that is needed for cleaning. Chemicals or harsh brushes should be avoided.
- Beware of temperature changes: Rapid temperature fluctuations can damage the delicate opal, so avoid extreme climate changes when wearing it.