At first glance, the Ethiopian Welo Opal looks like something created in a lab. The dazzling gem radiates neon colors that seem almost too vibrant to be naturally occurring. It's completely real, however, and showcases a harmonious mixture of yellows, reds, greens, and blues. When rotated, the stone sets off a firework-like display of these hues.
This opal is relatively new in the commercial gem world. It's only within the last five years that it was found in Gondar, Ethiopia from a field called Welo. Located on a plateau in the highlands, only the local workers are allowed to mine this place and harvest its incredible bounty.
With its vibrant and varied colorization, it's no surprise that the Ethiopian Welo Opal is a popular choice for jewelry. Sites like Treasurion also sell the loose gemstone for upwards of a thousand dollars.
Photo source: Treasurion
Photo source: Treasurion
Photo source: Treasurion
Photo source: Treasurion
Photo source: Treasurion
Photo source: Treasurion
Photo source: Treasurion
Photo source: Treasurion
Photo source: Treasurion
Like all gems, there is visual diversity within the Ethiopian Welo Opal. This particular cut looks like an ocean bed is contained inside of it.
Photo source: DireTube
Photo source: DireTube
Photo source: DireTube
Photo source: DireTube
via [Reddit]
