What is Ethiopian Opal - Value & Meaning

Summary

Steve Moriarty from Moriarty's Gem Art introduces Ethiopian Welo opals, a rare and high-quality gem source discovered in 2008. These opals stand out for their transparency, vibrant colors, and large sizes, surpassing even Australian opals. Welo opals are durable, resistant to cracking, and can absorb water, temporarily changing appearance. Despite some being treated for enhanced color, the material is considered one of the best buys today due to its current abundance, durability, and beauty, making it a unique investment in the gem market.

Takeaways

• 💎 Welo Ethiopian opal, discovered in 2008, is a rare and high-quality gemstone with exceptional transparency and vibrant colors.
• 📉 Gem discoveries often lead to low prices initially due to high availability, but prices increase as supplies dwindle and demand grows.
• 🌈 Ethiopian opals offer a wide range of colors, including rare hues like violet, which are uncommon in opals from other regions.
• 🔮 The opals are unique for their high transparency, allowing them to be faceted, carved, or cabbed, with colors evenly distributed throughout the stone.
• 🌊 Many Welo Ethiopian opals are hydrophane, meaning they absorb water and can change appearance when wet, becoming clear and then returning to their original look once dry.
• 💧 Unlike opals from other regions, Ethiopian opals don't suffer from crazing (cracking) due to drying out, making them more durable.
• 🕵️‍♂️ Some Ethiopian opals are subjected to treatments like dyeing or smoke treatments to enhance color, though these enhancements should be disclosed when sold.
• 🔥 Opals from Ethiopia are also tested to be more durable than other opals, withstanding drops from up to 4 feet without damage, unlike opals from other locations.
• 🎨 Some Ethiopian opals may have their colors enhanced with enamel on the back, a practice that is acceptable if disclosed.
• 💰 Currently, Ethiopian opals are abundant and relatively affordable, making them a great investment opportunity for gem enthusiasts.

Q & A

What is the main topic discussed in the script?

The script discusses a new source of high-quality opals from Welo, Ethiopia, highlighting their unique properties and market opportunities.

Why are newly discovered gems typically inexpensive at first?

Newly discovered gems are inexpensive initially due to the large quantity available, but as the supply diminishes and demand grows, prices tend to rise rapidly.

How does the quality of Ethiopian opal compare to Australian opal?

The quality of Ethiopian opal is described as superior to Australian opal, which was previously considered the finest opal source. Ethiopian opals have higher transparency and more intense, evenly spread colors.

What is hydrophone material in relation to Ethiopian opal?

Hydrophane material refers to Ethiopian opal’s ability to absorb water. When placed in water, the opal becomes clear, but it turns milky again after drying. This property is unique to Ethiopian opals.

What are some risks or challenges associated with opal from other sources?

A major risk with opals from other sources is drying out and cracking, a process called crazing. However, Ethiopian opal does not face this issue.

What treatments or enhancements are used on Ethiopian opals?

Some Ethiopian opals are treated with dyes or smoke treatments to enhance their colors. Enameling on the back of the gem is another method used to intensify the color, especially in highly transparent opals.

How can hydrophone opal be identified?

Hydrophane opal can be identified by its ability to absorb water and by its characteristic of feeling sticky to the tongue or finger.

What makes Ethiopian opals more durable than opals from other locations?

Tests from the Gemological Institute of America show that Ethiopian opal is more durable, capable of withstanding drops to concrete from four feet without damage. Opals from other locations tend to fail this test.

What should be avoided when wearing Ethiopian opals?

While Ethiopian opals can handle occasional exposure to water, such as washing hands, swimming with them should be avoided as they can absorb water and temporarily change appearance.

Why is now considered a good time to buy Ethiopian opals?

Ethiopian opals are currently plentiful and affordable, offering a unique opportunity for buyers before the supply diminishes and prices rise, similar to other gem discoveries.