OH! That Opal life – in the facet lane by Diana Jarrett

LUNARDI TURTLE ENHANCER FEATURING
BRAZILIAN CRYSTAL OPAL.
COURTESY WALLACE GOLDSMITHING

Are you an opal aficionada (try saying that quickly) like I am? This ancient gemstone has transfixed collectors for centuries. Opal has been discovered in early jewelry and provides us with an insight into its long and beloved history. For the ancient Romans, this hypnotic gem symbolized love and hope. So, they are acknowledged as having named it “opalus” or precious stone.

WOVEN IN LEGEND & LORE
Enigmatic opal is the stuff of legends and romantic tales. Famed stage actress Sarah Bernhardt wore opals all her life and owned several art nouveau opal jewelry pieces designed by 19th century artist René Lalique. The gem then achieved widespread popularity when Britain’s Queen Victoria fell for the Australian opal variety.

WHERE TO FIND IT
Today Australia remains the most popular source for this lively gemstone. But it is found in various parts of the world, including the US. Lately, Ethiopian opal has penetrated the market and is finding popularity with collectors of the colorful jewel. Fortunate October babies claim this treasure as their birthstone.

RARE & BEAUTIFUL
One variety you may not have heard of is Brazilian crystal opal. It is celebrated for its semi-transparency, giving it a rather see-through body color, and that’s something true collectors adore. The stone produces lovely pastel colors with abundant fire. However, the material is not available in great quantities, because there are no large-scale mining efforts producing Brazilian crystal opal. So, collectors who are fortunate enough to find top-quality pieces have a rare jewel indeed.

Because of its semi-transparent characteristics, some fine Brazilian crystal opal is also given a carved treatment to enhance its unique traits. Are you getting a yen to see what a spectacular Brazilian crystal opal actually looks like? You don’t have to look far. Florida based Wallace Goldsmithing has built a stellar reputation by creating
original jewelry for discerning clients. The craftsmanship paired to quality jewels makes Wallace jewelry and objects d’art collectible at the highest level.

NATURAL WONDER COLLECTION
Judy Wallace created her 43.0 carat Brazilian crystal opal turtle enhancer boasting sapphires and diamonds from Wallace Goldsmithing’s Natural Wonder Collection. The carved opal shell of the turtle makes the wearer like feel this golden sea creature is actually immersed in the turquoise waters that it calls home. It’s a true homage to marine life at its finest.

Diana Jarrett

Contact Diana Jarrett at diana@dianajarrett.com and read color-n-ice.blogspot.com

www.dianajarrett.com