Origin: Worldwide, notably Australia, Mexico, Peru
Mineral Species: Opal
Mineral Group: Oxides
Chemical Formula: SiO2.nH2O
Hardness: 5.5-6
Crystal System: N/A
Colour: All colours
Typical Appearance: Crystalline masses.
Birthstone: Libra, Secondary Birthstone for Virgo
Chakra Alignment: Depends on colour
Element: None
Origin of Name & Mythology: The name derives from the Roman opalus, which is a Latinised version of the Sanskrit upala, meaning ‘precious stone’. In Elizabethan times it was known as ophthalmos (eye). Opal’s unfortunate association with bad luck did not occur until the 19th century, and probably derives from Sir Walter Scott’s novel, Anne of Geierstein. Prior to that, opal was traditionally believed to be lucky, as it was deemed to possess as many virtues as hues and colours. In the Middle Ages, it was used to treat diseases of the eye, and purported to render the wearer invisible.
Opal occurs in a wide variety of types and colours, each with its own attributes. In general, opal energises, balances, and lifts the spirits, bestowing optimism and a general love of life and all that it holds.
It stimulates creativity and psychic development, and encourages self-reflection, allowing old issues to come to the surface and be magnified and cleared, helping us to let go of the past, including old past-life issues that have come through to this lifetime. It is still used to improve vision, and in the treatment of eye diseases.
Emotionally soothing and uplifting and an assistant in communication and self-expression, especially when there is a lack of self-confidence. Blue opal is also purported to be useful in healing past-life injuries of the throat, or other experiences that are affecting the present life.
Chakra Alignment: Throat
Zodiac: Aries, Virgo
Mythologically associated with oceans, distances and the longing for a spiritual home. In South America it is considered a magical love stone. It is warm and happy, and connects primarily with the Heart and Upper Heart Chakras, more than with the Throat. It helps us to become open and enthusiastic, liberates feelings, and has a mood-lifting effect. It strengthens the immune system as well as having a positive effect on the emotions, and aids inner reflection. It works slowly, and is best used in direct contact with the body.
Chakra Alignment: Throat
Zodiac: Aries, Virgo
A powerful energiser and warming stone, fire opal also facilitates change and "moving on". It can support underlying energy levels to avoid "burn-out". Use with care, as it can sometimes be overwhelming to those who are weak from long-term illness. Fire opal can also magnify and dislodge deep-seated emotions, allowing us to let go of the past and face our demons.
Chakra Alignment: Throat, Navel
Zodiac: Aries, Virgo
Releases us from our inhibitions and allows us to express ourselves openly, revealing our true nature. It encourages generosity on a community level. It is also used to activate and open the Heart Chakra while remaining grounded and centred.
Chakra Alignment: Throat, Heart
Zodiac: Aries, Virgo
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