A hydrophane opal is indeed real. Hydrophane opals are a specific type of opal that possess unique characteristics, particularly their ability to absorb water. This property sets them apart from other types of opals.
Opals, in general, are a form of hydrated amorphous silica, composed of small spheres of silicon dioxide packed closely together. These spheres diffract light, creating the play of colors that opals are known for. However, hydrophane opals have an additional feature – their porous nature allows them to absorb water.
When a hydrophane opal comes into contact with water, it can absorb it, which leads to a noticeable change in its appearance. The opal may become more transparent or even change color. This phenomenon occurs because the water fills the tiny voids within the opal, altering the way light interacts with the stone.
The ability of hydrophane opals to absorb water makes them quite fascinating and unique among opals. However, it’s important to note that not all opals have this property. Hydrophane opals are predominantly found in certain deposits, such as the Welo opal deposits in Ethiopia.
Having personally worked with opals, I have come across hydrophane opals and witnessed their water-absorbing abilities. It’s truly mesmerizing to see an opal undergo a transformation when exposed to water. The opal’s colors can become more vibrant, and its transparency can increase, revealing hidden patterns and details.
Furthermore, the water absorption in hydrophane opals is reversible. Once the opal has absorbed water, it can release it back into the environment over time or with the application of heat. This characteristic allows for the opal to return to its original appearance.
Hydrophane opals are a real and fascinating variety of opal. Their ability to absorb water and undergo changes in color and transparency sets them apart from other types of opals. The discovery and exploration of hydrophane opals in the Welo deposits of Ethiopia have added a new dimension to the world of opal mining and appreciation.