Ethiopian opal / Welo opal Pendant / new- 0.48 g - (1)

Ethiopian Opal Pendant / new

Set in 925 sterling silver / 18-karat gold-plated

Weight: 2.4 ct / 0.48 g (excluding the leather band)

7.7 mm x 6.2 mm x 3.8 mm

Brand new and unworn

Including leather strap


Opals from Australia have been known for a long time. However, in recent years, a new variety from Ethiopia has been stealing some of the spotlight: the Welo opal! This stone is translucent and features characteristic, unique light reflections. It was discovered in the Semien Wollo mountain region in northeastern Ethiopia. The exact time of the discovery is not known, but some sources date the introduction of the Welo opal to the Nairobi market to 1993. The credited discoverer is chemist Tilahun Yohannes, and as early as 1994, geologist Dr. N. Barot reported on this gemstone novelty in an article in the 'ICA Gazette.' Mining began slowly, with only 10 kilograms extracted in 1997. The jewelry manufacturer Eyaopal from Addis Ababa cut 400 grams from this material. Later that same year, the Welo opal was presented at the international mineral fair in Sainte-Marie, and a year later, Eyaopal showcased 350 cut opals at the trade fair in Tucson. Commercial mining started in 2008, marking the birth of a new star among opals.


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