Jalisco fire opal captures the glow of volcanic lava streams within which it formed. Venerated for its vibrant and passionate orange sparkle, this fiery gem is a favorite for collectors.
As its name suggested, this gem sprang from fire, in particular from the ancient volcanoes of the Jalisco region of Mexico. Nuggets of opal can be seen fixed in lava streams. This gem formed when water trickled into molten rock, permeating its crevices. With high temperature and tension, silica created a compact gel that trapped the water inside the stone. The ancient Maya, Aztec and Inca tribes called this treasure, the "stone of the bird of paradise." The fire opal is the national gemstone of Mexico. The name opal evolved from the Roman word "opalus" which traces its roots from the Greek's "opallios," meaning to see a change of color. This Greek word is likewise a revision of the ancient Indian Sanskrit's "upala," which means precious stone.
LOCATION: Mexico
The finest quality of Jalisco Fire Opals can be found in Mexico from its western state of Jalisco. The state's most valuable mines resurfaced in the 1950s. We purchase them directly from the source and is proud to pass these savings on to our valued customers.