Across the world precious opal occurs in very few locations because its formation requires very special conditions.
Scientific research and studies over the last two centuries have provided detail about the formation of most gemstones, but the Opal is still not properly understood. There are currently 3 theories as to the natural formation of Opal.
Deep Weathering
The most widely-accepted explanation since the 1960's, this theory supposes that around 30 million years ago deep weathering caused chemical changes to the earth' sediments, releasing large quantities of Silica, which collected in cracks to form Opal.
Syntectonic
Some believe that Opal has been formed via silica-laden fluids moving through the layers below the Earth's surface at temperatures over 100 degrees Celsius. When the earth's plates shift, the fluid can become trapped, creating Opal.
Microbe Model
A new theory presented by German Scientist Dr Hans-Jurgen Behr draws from the fact that he discovered evidence of rich aerobic soil bacteria and microbes within Opal (don't worry, Opals are perfectly safe and hygenic!). The bacteria can react, creating materials important in the formation of Opal.
This fantastic stone continues to mystify the scientiffic world - but at Tremonti we don't worry about how they might be made, we just focus on providing you with the best Opals around!
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