Fire Opal
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Physical & Optical Properties
Category
Semi-Precious Gems
Mohs Hardness
6.0 – 6.5
Specific Gravity
1.97 – 2.22
Refractive Index
1.37 – 1.47
Crystal System
Amorphous
Luster
Vitreous
Cleavage
None
Fracture
Conchoidal,Splintery
Color
white
Pleochroism
Absent
Mohs Hardness
| Mohs | Reference mineral | Fire Opal |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Talc | |
| 2 | Gypsum | |
| 3 | Calcite | |
| 4 | Fluorite | |
| 5 | Apatite | |
| 6 | Orthoclase | ● |
| 7 | Quartz | |
| 8 | Topaz | |
| 9 | Corundum | |
| 10 | Diamond |
Crystal System
Value & Market
Price Tier
Moderate ($50-500/ct)
Where to Buy Fire Opal
Blue Nile
Fine jewelry retailer
James Allen
Gemstone jewelry
Brilliant Earth
Ethically sourced gems
Amazon
Wide selection
Links may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
About Fire Opal
Fire opal is a transparent to translucent opal displaying vivid orange, yellow, or red body color reminiscent of flickering flames, sometimes with a subtle play-of-color. It forms in ancient volcanic environments, with the finest gem-quality material found in the Mexican states of Querétaro, Hidalgo, and Jalisco. Long venerated by the Aztecs as the "Stone of the Bird of Paradise," fire opal is prized today as Mexico's national gemstone.
On this page
Jewelry Use
Durability
5/10
Science FYI Family
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fire Opal?
Fire opal is a transparent to translucent opal displaying vivid orange, yellow, or red body color reminiscent of flickering flames, sometimes with a subtle play-of-color. It forms in ancient volcanic environments, with the finest gem-quality material found in the Mexican states of Querétaro, Hidalgo
What is the hardness of Fire Opal?
Fire Opal has a Mohs hardness of 6.0 to 6.5, making it moderate for use in jewelry.
What color is Fire Opal?
Fire Opal is primarily White.
How much does Fire Opal cost?
Fire Opal falls into the Moderate ($50-500/ct) price range. Prices vary based on color, clarity, cut, and origin.
What is the crystal system of Fire Opal?
Fire Opal belongs to the Amorphous crystal system.