Ethiopian Opal / Welo Opal Trailer / new- 1.14 g - (1)

Pendant Ethiopian Opal / polished / new Set in 925. Sterling silver 1.14 g / 5.7 ct (weighed without leather cord) 24.8 mm x 6.5 mm x 5.6 mm New and unworn Includes leather cord Opals from Australia have long been known. In recent years, however, a new variety from Ethiopia has been stealing a little of the scene: the Welo Opal! This stone is translucent and captivates with its characteristic, unique light reflections. It was discovered in the Semien Wollo mountain region in northeastern Ethiopia. The exact time of discovery is not known. Some sources date the introduction of Welo Opal to the Nairobi market in 1993. The discoverer is considered to be the chemist Tilahun Yohannes, and as early as 1994 the geologist Dr. N. Barot reported this jewel-­stone novelty in an article in the ICA Gazette. Mining gradually began; in 1997 only 10 kilos were mined. The Eyaopal gemstone cutting company from Addis Ababa polished 400 grams from it. In the same year, the Welo Opal was presented at the international mineral fair in Sainte-Marie, and a year later Eyaopal showed 350 cut opals at the Tucson trade fair. Commercial mining began in 2008. A new star among opals was born. Shipping as insured registered mail

Estimate:$1.12

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