Mexican Fire Opal

Mexican Fire Opal

Opals are one of the beautiful gems reflecting vibrant pastel colours. But fire opals have a unique look, and they reflect warm colours like gold, yellow, and orange. You may also refer to these stones as the Mexican opals. Lots of gemologists and jewelry designers like to buy these stones.

From the name Mexican fire opals, you can easily understand that they have their origin in Mexico. You can find the stones mined in Queretaro, Guerrero, Julisio, Michoacan, and other states of the country. However, the best mines were located in 1835. There are also some traces of fire opals in British Columbia (Canada) and Oregon (the USA).

Formation of fire opals

Fire is the source of these fire opal stones. Thus, you can find them deep in the ancient volcanoes. While water starts seeping into the silica-enriched lava to fill the hollow parts, it results in the development of fire opals.

Due to the volcanic pressure and heat, the lava retains water. It helps in manifesting the bright red-orange colour of fire opals. The Mayan civilizations gave a high value to fire opal stones.

Details about the composition of the stone

Fire opals are made of hydrated silicon dioxide by chemical composition. These stones do not have any crystalline structure. Moreover, the term hydrated indicates that the stones have water, and it is around 3 to 10%.

How do opals differ from fire opals?

It is already said that regular opals reflect attractive colours, and they contain cristobalite spheres of different sizes. They also have a random distribution pattern and look white. This white substance is referred to as opalescence.

On the contrary, fire opals are rarer, and they will attract you with a play of colour. There are sparkles, spots, flashes, and patterns of pure colours. While holding the stones at different angles, you will find these colours.

The brilliant colour has made the fire opal distinctive. Moreover, the stone’s natural colours are brighter and reflect the most stunning shades.

While an opal is a type of hardened jelly, fire opals have unique characteristics. These Mexican fire opals can range from translucent and transparent ones.

What Are The Properties Of The Mexican Fire Opal?

• Chemical Formula: SiO2.nH2O
• Specific Gravity: 1.920-2.38 Typical:2.150
• Hardness: 5-6.5
• Refractive Index: 1.37-1.52
• Fracture: Conchoidal, Uneven
• Diaphaneity: Translucent to opaque

Know the significance of using fire opals

Wearers will get value from different positive attributes of fire opals. These stones symbolize love and passion for others. However, to find success in your career, you can put on these stones. Fire opals represent success and good fortune.

Other reasons for wearing fire opals

Wearers will have a positive effect on their health by wearing fire opals. These gemstones have the potential to heal your injuries. Moreover, they promote natural remedies for your kidney disorder. Those who have a lack of self-confidence can put on these fire opals. Furthermore, you can restore your relationships with these gems.