Is WELO opal valuable?
Like most gems the top quality material is quite rare and commands a high price. The intensity of the color is what makes this opal valuable as the best Ethiopian opal have colors that are described as unreal looking like colored L.E.D. lights.
Are WELO opals real?
While these unique types of opal can be found in Ethiopia, they are incredibly rare. The majority of precious Welo opal is light yellow, white, or translucent – body colors that showcase a vibrant rainbow effect created by the interplay of light.
Where does Ethiopian WELO opal come from?
Discovered in 1990, Ethiopian opal was first commercially mined in 2008. It comes from Ethiopia’s northern Welo (or Wello) District. A range of deposits in the area offer a range of opal types, including types found at Australia’s Coober Pedy mines!
Why are WELO opals cheap?
It might seem a tad bit odd, but Ethiopian opals are cheap because they don’t control the market. The only way Ethiopian opal sellers can turn a profit is if they offer their gems at a lower price point. While these opals tend to be considered rarer than Australian, they aren’t necessarily lacking in quantity.
Can WELO opals get wet?
Myth: Water damages solid opals. Never clean your opal with water or get your opal wet. Fact: Solid opals cannot be damaged by getting wet. Most Australian precious opals contain around 5-6% water, and immersing a solid opal in water will do no damage whatsoever.
Why are WELO opals so cheap?
How do you tell if an opal is Ethiopian or Australian?
Australian Opal gemstone comes in very white base color without fire called “White Opal” and in white base color with play of color on it called “Fire Opal“. Ethiopian Opal also comes in Fire. Australian Opals generally comes in translucent and Opaque in nature while Ethiopian Opal comes only in translucent in nature.
Why do WELO opals turn yellow?
Hydrophane opals have the ability to absorb water or liquids, similar to a sponge, resulting in a change of color that may turn the opal translucent yellow or brown and the play-of-color to disappear temporarily. Don’t panic though! The color will return once the opal is fully and naturally air-dried.
How do you care for WELO opal?
Ethiopian Opal Jewelry Care: When cleaning your Opal jewelry, you should avoid chemicals of any type and simply use warm water and a non-abrasive cloth or sponge. Try not to use too much water, and if possible, simply use a damp cloth. If your Ethiopian Opal gets wet, don’t worry.
Where does the name Welo Opal come from?
The term Welo is easily tied to the Wollo Province, though the area’s gems may also be associated with names like Delanta (a sub-region of Wollo) and Wegel Tena (a nearby village). While sorting out the names and origins of Ethiopian opals can be a little tricky, identifying their unique colors and patterns can be far more fun.
What makes the Ethiopian Welo Opal so valuable?
There is a large quantity of Ethiopian opal available which has kept the price low. Like most gems the top quality material is quite rare and commands a high price. The intensity of the color is what makes this opal valuable as the best Ethiopian opal have colors that are described as unreal looking like colored L.E.D. lights.
How did the Ethiopian opal get its name?
Metaphysical Properties. Ethiopian Opal has plagiaristic its name from the Sanskrit word “upala”, which stands for, “valuable stone”.These Ethiopian Opals have asserted to be discovered around 4000 years ago, and since then it has not lost its popularity as a healing stone among human beings.
Can You Drop a Welo Opal on concrete?
Tests by the Gemological Institute of America has shown that this opal is capable of withstanding drops to concrete from four feet without damage. All other sources failed this drop test. Welo Ethiopian opal is unique, durable, and currently plentiful, and we highly recommend this gem as a best buy at this time.