Ethiopian Opals 

Formation and Mining

At Shaun's Opals, we source our Ethiopian opals primarily from the Wollo Province. These opals formed within volcanic rocks, unlike most other opals which form in sedimentary rocks. The formation process involves the deposition of silica-rich solutions in volcanic ash layers, which then solidify over time under high-pressure conditions. Mining is often artisanal, with locals digging by hand to extract the precious stones, ensuring the utmost care and attention to each piece.

Types of Ethiopian Opals

Hydrophane Opals: These opals can absorb water and become transparent.

Fire Opals: Known for their vibrant, fiery colours.

Opal Stability

Ethiopian opals can be more prone to cracking if they absorb too much water, but with proper care, they remain stunning and stable. At Shaun's Opals, we provide guidance on how to best care for your opal to maintain its beauty and integrity.

Opal Colour and Patterns

Ethiopian opals are renowned for their play-of-colour, displaying a wide range of colours including red, blue, green, and yellow. The patterns can be striking, often showing unique and vibrant displays. We handpick each opal to ensure it showcases the best possible color and pattern.

Water Content in Opals

Ethiopian opals have higher water content compared to other opals, making them unique but also more sensitive to humidity and water. Shaun's Opals offers tips on handling and storing these precious gems to keep them in optimal condition.

Rarity and Value

While Ethiopian opals are more abundant than Australian opals, high-quality specimens can still be quite rare and valuable due to their unique beauty and color range. The most prized Ethiopian opals are those with vivid play-of-colour and minimal inclusions, and at Shaun's Opals, we strive to bring you only the best.

Categories that Define Opals

Play-of-Colour: The phenomenon where opals display a spectrum of colours when light interacts with their internal structure. This is a key indicator of an opal's value and quality.

Transparency: Opals can range from opaque to transparent. Transparent opals, especially those with vivid play-of-colour, are often highly prized.

Body Tone: Refers to the background colour of the opal, which can be white, black, or any shade in between. The body tone affects the overall appearance and value, with darker tones often enhancing the play-of-color. 

 Scale: N1 (jet black) to N9 (white).

Pattern: The arrangement of colours in an opal, which can include patterns like harlequin (a patchwork of colours), pin-fire (small dots of colour), and rolling flash (large areas of colour that appear to move). Unique and well-defined patterns can significantly increase an opal's value.