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Rainbow Andamooka
Opal
Treatment of the limestone matrix involves
a fairly simple process of simmering the
stones in a very rich solution of sugar in
water, followed by a period of simmering in
a bath of very concentrated sulfuric acid.
The action is that the sugar penetrates into
the limestone matrix and then the acid 'cooks'
it turning the white sugar behind and around
the 'pockets' of opal, into a black carbon.
The result is that the blackened matrix surrounding
the pockets of opal, does not diffract light,
and the colors of the opal beam through.
The quality of the finished stone is gauged
by the brilliance of the fire and the richness
and range of the colors. Apparently, this
treatment is no harder than making dinner.
This is a cute little wearable piece strung
on 2mm agate beads. It is strung to16” long
with a sterling spring ring clasp.
$95.
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