Opal Shell

The creation of Opal colour is unique as this is the only Gem on earth where you can (literally) �Hold a Rainbow in your hand�! As unexpected as it may seem, the ingredients behind the sought-after gem are quite commonplace. Opal is formed when water containing dissolved silica seeps within beds of Australian soil, where the elements of water and silica are deposited into cracks deep within the earth (often caused by natural faults, or decomposing fossils). As the water subsequently evaporates, the silica particles react and become �cemented� together, forming the structure known as opal. This is an interesting and unique process, as the colour and beauty of these gemstones are dependent on chance, making them a gem that is incredibly rare. The structure of the silica is entirely responsible for the opal�s colour and vibrancy, as the light will bend around the silica structure in order to produce the variety of radiant colours that the gem is known for. This process is similar to other gemstones, in regard