Gemstone: Lightning Ridge Opal Polished Opal

The Lightning Ridge opal mine is known for producing the famed black opal, but it also produces a variety of vibrant opals with a lustrous play-of-color and fire. Hannah Blount Jewelry works with a variety of opal cutters around the world who procure ethically-sourced, rough opal from local Australian miners. All opals are beloved for their whimsical, kaleidoscopic colors; the word opal comes from the Latin opallios—this describes a person’s ability to perceive the changing of colors.
MOHs Hardness: 5.5-6.5
Origins: Lightning Ridge, NSW Australia
Care: All opals are fragile like glass: be extra careful to avoid abrasive surfaces, and avoid knocking your opal against hard surfaces. Extreme temperature shifts can cause cracks. To keep your opal clean, use warm water with mild soap and a soft toothbrush or cloth. Do not use a steam cleaner or ultrasonic cleaner.
Healing Properties: Precious opals that contain play-of-color are known to stimulate the emotional body and are considered an amplifier stone.
Birthstone: October 
Anniversary: 14th