Vandervelden, Bibi. Siren Tail. 2025. BIBIVANDERVELDEN, https://www.instagram.com/p/DEcqfGLTeAs/?img_index=2
The name opal is believed to be derived from the Sanskrit word upala, which means ‘jewel’, and later the Greek derivative opállios.
There are many types of opals and countries of origin. The most popular being Australian and Ethiopian opals. However, you can find opals from Mexico, Peru, Nevada and Brazil.
In terms of cost, Ethiopian opals are cheaper because they don’t control the market like Australian opals. However, they are just as beautiful.
That said, Ethiopian opals, unlike Australian opals which are sedimentary, are hydrophane. They can absord water and potentially lose their brilliance.