Navigation
- Introduction
- Are Opal Rings Bad Luck?
- The Opal Superstition
- Debunking The Myth
- Care For Opal Rings
- Conclusion
Introduction
Known as the “Queen of Gemstones”, the opal has become an attractive choice for modern couples with its kaleidoscopic colors. However, this beautiful gemstone has not been entirely loved throughout history. Many believe that wearing an opal brings bad luck. But, in fact, there is no scientific evidence or concrete facts that can support this notion. This guide will explain the superstitions and legends about opals and provide some tips for caring for opal rings.
Are Opal Rings Bad Luck?
For centuries, opal rings have been believed to bring bad luck when worn, whether as engagement rings or wedding bands. However, there is no scientific evidence that opals bring bad luck or misfortune. It is said that this superstition is based on a novel published by Sir Walter Scott in 1829. Unfortunately, this fictional story negatively impacted Opal’s popularity.
The Opal Superstition
For those seeking something beautiful and unique, opal rings offer a great option. However, superstitions surrounding this unique gemstone may make you hesitate to buy opal jewelry.
Opals are the birthstone for October. It is said that wearing opals brings bad luck unless it is your birthstone. Some believe that you should only buy an opal for yourself and you can wear it. If an opal is given as a gift, then bad luck can be negated by handing its giver a small sum of money. As a gemstone, opals are often associated with death. For instance, a new bride wearing an opal ring will quickly become a widow. In addition, in the 19th century, King Alfonso XII of Spain was given an opal ring, and it is said that every royal family member who wore it was killed. Was it indeed the opal that killed this royal family? According to sources, the cause of death was more likely cholera, which was raging through Spain at the time.
Debunking The Myth
Do you know where the rumors about opals come from? A prevailing theory is that these rumors were started by jewelers in the 19th and 20th centuries to want more people to buy diamonds. Opal is a crystalline gemstone mineral formed from a solution of silicon dioxide and water. As water runs through the earth, it picks up silica from sandstone. This silica-rich solution finds its way into cracks and voids in the rock, leaving behind a silica deposit when the water evaporates. These stones possess no inherent power or mystical properties that could influence luck or fortune, as they are formed naturally in the earth’s crust.
Globally, attitudes towards opals vary greatly. In some cultures, the opals are a symbol of good luck and hope, in others, they are favored for containing all the good virtues of each gemstone combined. In ancient Rome, opals were believed to provide the wearer with good luck and protect them from harm. They also thought the stone symbolized love and loyalty, making them a popular choice for engagement rings or other wedding jewelry. In medieval Europe, opals were seen as protective amulets that provided the wearer with the power of invisibility. To this day, opals are still associated with good luck, hope, love, and loyalty. And that explains why an increasing number of people are choosing opal engagement rings or opal wedding bands.
Care For Opal Rings
Opals are relatively soft gemstones compared to other jewelry stones, ranging from 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. Diamonds are the hardest substance on the Mohs scale, rated at a 10. This means opals are easily scratched or chipped and abraded by gemstones harder than them. Thus they require extra care and maintenance to keep them in good condition.
Clean your opal gently with a soft cloth dipped in warm soapy water. Do not soak your opal ring in water nor avoid using ultrasonic cleaners. Remove your ring before using household cleaners, perfumes, or cosmetics to prevent damage to the stone’s surface. Consider taking it off when you sleep or wearing it only on special occasions. When you are not wearing the ring, store it separately in a soft cloth pouch or jewelry box to protect it from dust and scratches.
Conclusion
The belief that opal rings bring bad luck is nothing more than a superstition rooted in folklore and fiction. Opals are exquisite gemstones that deserve to be admired and appreciated for their beauty and symbolism. By debunking opal myths and understanding its history, we can wear them with confidence. Opal rings may not bring good luck, but they will certainly bring beauty, elegance, and a touch of sophistication to any jewelry collection.