TERRIUM — A mineralogy cabinet


Ópalo

Ópalo is a mineral with formula SiO₂·nH₂O, in the Mineraloides (Óxidos) group. This specimen comes from Macedo de Cavaleiros, Vila Real, Portugal and joined the Terrium collection in 2024.

Ópalo from Macedo de Cavaleiros, Vila Real, Portugal — Terrium

Description

Common opal, cream-colored with areas of pearly luster, with dark brown veins.

History of this specimen

Piece without much aesthetic or collection value, but interesting for the combination of opal and matrix.

Technical data

Catalogue No.
0565
Internal reference
X0202
Composition
SiO₂·nH₂O
Name
Ópalo
Group
Mineraloides (Óxidos)
District / Municipality
Macedo de Cavaleiros
Province
Vila Real
Country
Portugal
Size (cm)
8 x 2.5
Acquired
2024
Etymology
It derives from the Sanskrit 'upala' (उपल), meaning 'precious stone'. This term passed into Greek as 'opallios' and into Latin as 'opalus', always retaining its status as a valuable gem.
Quality
Buena
Value trend
Estable

Related specimens

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