Smoked Ethiopian Opal
$35.00
Item number:
1
Smoked Ethiopian Opal 1.14 CT
A smoked Ethiopian opal is a natural hydrophane opal from the Welo region that has been artificially baked or exposed to smoke. The smoke treatment forces fine carbon or soot particles into the porous stone, permanently darkening its light body tone to mimic the highly valuable, naturally dark Australian black opal.
Why Sellers Smoke Ethiopian Opals
- Enhanced Color: The dark background makes the vibrant flashes of red, green, and gold "play-of-color" stand out much more vividly.
- Affordability: Natural black opals are extremely rare and expensive. Smoking allows collectors to achieve a similar dark, dramatic look for a fraction of the price.
The Hydrophane Catch
Most Ethiopian opals are hydrophane, meaning they are highly porous and act like a sponge. Because they absorb liquids readily, they take on smoke treatments very well, but this creates specific vulnerabilities:
- Moisture Sensitivity: When exposed to water or liquids, these opals can absorb the moisture, causing them to temporarily lose their dark body color or become transparent until they fully dry out.
- Staining: Due to their porous nature, they can easily absorb skin oils, lotions, and dirt, which can alter the color of the stone over time.
- Cracking (Crazing): Constant cycles of absorbing water and drying out—or exposure to extreme temperature changes—can cause the opal to crack, especially if set in a ring.
Expert Care and Sizing
Users on see our prices generally agree that opals require delicate handling to maintain their fire and integrity. To ensure they last, they should be kept away from harsh chemicals, heavy moisture, extreme heat, and sudden temperature shifts.
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