FIRE OPAL - 8.97 CT. ...

Description

FIRE OPAL - 8.97 CT
Querétaro, Mexico
The use of Mexican Fire Opals can be traced back to the Aztecs, who incorporated them as accents in ornamental jewelry and ceremonial clothing - the Fire Opal was known by the name "vitzitziltecpal", or "hummingbird stone," in reference to its striking resemblance to the iridescence of hummingbird feathers. The state of Querétaro is the primary Opal mining area of Mexico. The 1960's through the mid-1970's was the heyday of Fire Opal production. Today, many of the mines have been exhausted and gem quality Opals, with strong play-of-color, have become rare. This oval cabochon has broad green flash, with hints of teal and purple, over a reddish-brown body color. It weighs 8.97 carats, measures 17.73 x 12.53 mm, and has good polish.

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