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The Ethiopian Welo Opal was only discovered
in 2008. It differs from the
Australian Opal
(AO) in many ways. It is found in nodules, where as Australian Opal is
found in very thin layers, though both are found in seams as opposed
to pockets or scattered in strata. The most sought after and highest
quality of AO is "black". So far there have been no confirmed black
opals from
Ethiopia, but
the quality of the fire of
Welo opal
matches if not exceeds the best AO has to offer. There have been
reports of faked black opal from Ethiopia that have been either heat
treated or dyed.
A NOTE ABOUT ETHIOPIAN
OPAL:
We have seen an number of Ethiopian opals and have worked on a few of
them. While one can't deny they are a colourful stone, there is a
question mark over the stability and durability of some of these
stones. Also there is a problem identifying whether or not the stones
are treated. Until further information about this stone is forthcoming
from a dependable source, we are advising our customers that this is a
"problem" stone. and should be used with caution. |
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Location -
Australia, Brazil, USA, Sri Lanka, Mexico |
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Group - Silica |
R.I. - 1.45 |
Hardness - 5-6.5 |
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