Ethiopian Opal / Welo Opal Ring / new- 2.34 g - (1)

Ring Ethiopian Opal / cut / new

In 925 Sterling Silver set

Weight: 2.34 g

12.1 mm x 8.4 mm

New and unworn

Ring size:

U 54 - 55 (sits exactly between)
UK N - O
US 7.0
FR 14 - 15
Inner diameter: 17.35 mm

Opals from Australia have long been known. In recent years, however, a new variety from Ethiopia has been stealing a little of the spotlight: the Welo opal! This stone is translucent and captivates with its characteristic, unique light reflections. It was discovered in the Semien Wollo mountain region in northeastern Ethiopia. The exact date of discovery, however, is not known. Some sources date the introduction of the Welo opal to the Nairobi market to the year 1993. The discoverer is regarded as chemist Tilahun Yohannes, and as early as 1994 geologist Dr. N. Barot reported this gemstone novelty in an article in the ICA Gazette. Mining began slowly; in 1997 only 10 kilograms were mined. The gemstone lapidary Eyaopal from Addis Ababa cut out 400 grams from it. In the same year the Welo Opal was presented at the international mineral fair in Sainte-Marie, and a year later Eyaopal showed 350 cut opals at the Tucson trade fair. Commercial mining began in 2008. A new star among opals was born.

Shipping as insured registered mail