Snow Drop - Estate Australian Natural Opal Cabochon Loose Gemstone (EA002)

Snow Drop - Estate Australian Natural Opal Cabochon Loose Gemstone. This lovely gemstone is oval in shape, and white in color. The opal displays little to no color play, therefore it would make a perfect alternative to a pearl. A perfect specimen for a gem collector, replacement gemstone or for a custom-made piece of jewelry. 

History: The early Greeks believed the opal bestowed powers of foresight and prophecy upon its owner, while in Arabian folklore, it is said that the stone fell from heaven in flashes of lightning. To the Romans, it was considered to be a token of hope and purity. Ancient Romans provided the first real market for opal.

In Australia, precious opal is found in Cretaceous age (145 to 66 million years ago) sandstones and mudstones that have been weathered. This weathering released silica into groundwater, where it flowed through cracks in the rocks and slowly hardened into sub-microscopic spheres.

Measurements: Opal 8.00 mm x 6.00 mm 

Stone Size: Opal .70 carats (approximately) 

Weight: See stone size 

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: Australia 

Date: 145 to 66 million years old        Note: Came from a 1990s jewelers stock.