Opal

specimen number:
1052458

location:
Zimapan, Hidalgo, Mexico

description:
A gorgeous example of what is known as fire opal. This brilliant orange red translucent glassy opal with little attached matrix. This is an antique specimen, this comes with a label as shown at the end of the video that dates to the very early 20th century.

Fire opal from Zimapan in Hidalgo, Mexico, is associated with volcanic rocks and hydrothermal activity in a region that has a long history of mining for metals such as lead, zinc, and silver. The opal forms in cavities and fractures within rhyolitic and other volcanic host rocks, where silica rich fluids deposited amorphous silica under relatively low temperature conditions. Fire opal from this area is known for its vivid orange to red coloration, which is caused by trace elements and the way light interacts with the internal structure of the material. Although opal from Mexico has been known since pre Hispanic times, modern interest and collection of fire opal from localities such as Zimapan increased during the 20th century. Specimens from this region are valued for their bright color and transparency, making them popular both as gem material and as mineral specimens.

Questions about this specimen?
Send an email or call us: 314-341-1811.