About Gemstones
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		Opal
		Opal is a mysterious gem, thought to be both a symbol of hope and a jinx. It was also believed to be a gift from heaven that would fall in flashes of lightning. Derived from the Green "opallos" meaning "to see a change of color", opal comes in a variety of intense colors and no two stones are ever alike. Black opal has a dark body background which accentuates its "fire". White opal can also display flashes of color. Only stones with such play may be called "precious opal". Found primarily in Australia as well as in Mexico, opals are delicate by nature. Some may be enhanced through a special process of smoking.