61 beautiful, gently graduated, multi-chromatic opal beads imbued with lightening flashes, alternate with small rock crystal rondels to create this enchanting necklace. The beads are ranging from 3,5 millimeters to impressive 9,5 mm millimeters. 18 ¹/₂ inch long / 47 cm.
The graduated gems are of a nice size and perfectly matched, with each exhibiting a high level of translucence and a consistent palette of vibrant colors with a burning orange sunset glowing behind. A beautiful 18k gold clasp set with an oval orange synthetic stone seals the deal of this mesmerizing necklace.
Opals are not cut into beads very often, as they are usually found in thin layers, and bigger deposits are exceptionally rare. Cutting the round structure also creates a great deal of excess– about 90% of the rough opal is cut away to create just one bead. To find enough matching beads for a complete necklace takes serious effort.
Opal is the birthstone of October.
Truly the stuff of fairy tales. Their magic has been revered throughout history. Queen Victoria counted opal as her most favorite gem.
Many cultures have imbued opals with supernatural origins and powers. Arabic folklore tell that it falls from the heavens in flashes of lightning. In ancient Greece it was said that opals gave their owners the gift of prophecy and guarded them from disease.
The romans believed opals was the source of good fortune and classified it as a precious gemstone. In western Europe opals have long been considered as a symbol of hope, purity, and truth. The opal has ever since its discovery taken it’s place front stage when it can. It is part of the crown jewels of many nations, including the Holy Roman Empire, France and England.
18 ¹/₂″ length / 47 cm
Materials:
Lock 18k gold.
Gram Weight:
18.5 grams
Hallmarked: WH, Stockholm 1948, 18K
In very good condition. Re-strung.
