Sterling Silver 6mm x 4mm Oval White Crystal Opal 4 Claw Stud Earrings

Sterling Silver 6mm x 4mm Solid White Crystal Opal 4 Claw Stud Earrings

Opal is a hydrated amorphous form of silica (SiO2·nH2O); its water content may range from 3 to 21% by weight, but is usually between 6 and 10%. Due to its amorphous property, it is classified as a mineraloid, unlike crystalline forms of silica, which are considered minerals. It is deposited at a relatively low temperature and may occur in the fissures of almost any kind of rock, being most commonly found with limonite, sandstone, rhyolite, marl, and basalt.

The name opal is believed to be derived from the Sanskrit word upala (???), which means 'jewel', and later the Greek derivative opállios (?p??????), which means 'to see a change in color'.