Contra Luz Opal. Opal Butte. Morrow Co.. Oregon, USA. ...

Description

Contra Luz Opal
Opal Butte
Morrow Co.
Oregon, USA

Contra Luz Opals are a unique variety of precious Opal named after the Spanish term "against light." This type of Opal from Opal Butte, Oregon, is designated as such due to the specific play-of-color being visible via reflected or transmitted light. This large transparent "Contra Luz" specimen weighs an impressive 2,269 carats and has a faintly golden colored bodycolor with a broad flash play-of-color pattern. Bright flashes of red, purple, green, yellow, blue, pink, and teal hues become visible and appear as if suspended in the host rock. These Opals form in Rhyolite geodes embedded in decomposed Perlite, and earthy brown remnants of the host Rhyolite are evident near the edges of this colorful example. Play-of-color Opals from this locality are extremely rare, making this one exceptional offering. There are a couple of conchoidal inclusions near the periphery, and some crazing is evident, but all are part of this natural specimen. Crazing is expected with such material as the Opal shrinks and expands while the Rhyolite matrix remains inactive. The overall specimen exhibits a 360-degree polish and is one of the larger Contra Luz Opals ever offered to the public. This is a very attractive Natural History item. It is advised for the longevity of the item to keep it away from direct sunlight and heat.
Measurements: 3.70 x 2.53 x 2.36 inches (9.41 x 6.42 x 6.00 cm)

Provenance: The Edgehill Collection

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