For as long as I can remember Opals have been my all time favorite stone. I am completely mesmerized by how they dance around just by moving them in your hand. They are so diverse in color, shape and size. It is really hard to pick a favorite combination when they are all so special and beautiful, however, I am most definitely drawn to the pink tones and to opals in the rough. This is where your Jool Tool by Anie comes in.


I love her tool and its ability to polish, sharpen, shape and grind precious gemstones. Its amazing to watch and super easy to use. 

Opals are also known as the official Birthstone of October. This could also be why I have loved them for so long, as this is my birthday month. According to the Gemology Institute of America some people think it’s unlucky for anyone born in another month to wear an opal. But that particular superstition comes from a novel written in the 1800s (Anne of Geierstein by Sir Walter Scott), and not from any ancient belief or experience. In fact, throughout most of history, opal has been regarded as the luckiest and most magical of all gems because it can show all colors. Once, it was thought to have the power to preserve the life and color of blond hair. 

Well of course I have to giggle about the preserving of blond hair as I have always been a natural blonde, wink wink. 

You will typically find opals in many different finished jewelry pieces from rings, pendants, bracelets, earrings and brooches.

In addition to finished items Cabochon Opals are perfect for your beadwork pieces. Just imagine the beauty that can be created with one of these gorgeous stones. I found many examples on Pinterest by typing in the search words Opal and Beadwork. 

Opals can be very affordable and very, very expensive. The Australian Lightening Opal pictured here is listed on Jewelry Television for $360,000.00. I had to take a double look when I saw all of the zero's. It is truly a beauty that would enhance anyones gemstone collection. But not worry there are opals ranging anywhere from $25.00 each on up. You can also purchase a parcel of opals that range in different colors and sizes. This is a perfect way to get started with using opals in your beadwork. 

What ever your choice you can't go wrong with choosing an opal gemstone to use in any of your stringing, on loom or off loom projects. In fact, I am inspired to use some smaller opals in one of my Jewel Loom projects for my upcoming book with F&W Media scheduled to be released August 2015. Let the search begin for the right mix of color. 

Happy Beading, Jewels