opaalikiven

Opaalikivi is a Finnish term that translates to opal stone. Opal is a precious gemstone known for its unique play-of-color, a phenomenon caused by the diffraction of light through the stone's microscopic silica spheres. This play-of-color can exhibit a dazzling array of hues, including reds, oranges, yellows, greens, blues, and purples, often shifting and changing as the opal is viewed from different angles.

There are several varieties of opal, each with distinct characteristics. Precious opal, the most sought-after type, displays a vibrant play-of-color. Common opal, on the other hand, lacks this phenomenon and is often opaque or translucent, appearing in solid colors like white, green, or pink. Fire opal is a transparent to translucent variety that exhibits a warm body color, ranging from yellow to orange to red, and may or may not display a play-of-color.

Opal is a relatively soft gemstone, ranking between 5.5 and 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it susceptible to scratching and chipping. It is formed from silica-rich water that seeps into rock crevices and voids. As the water evaporates, it leaves behind a deposit of silica spheres. The arrangement and size of these spheres determine the opal's color and pattern.

Historically, opals have been valued for their beauty and mystique. They are believed by some to possess various healing properties and are associated with emotions, intuition, and creativity. In Finland, as in many other cultures, opaliikivi is appreciated both as a gemstone for jewelry and as a material of interest for its geological significance.