Australian Opal vs Ethiopian Opal: Which Is Better?

Opals (called 'Dudhiya Pathar' in Hindi) are considered gemstones with immense spiritual value. In the realm of Vedic astrology, white opal stones are related to Venus, i.e., the planet of love and harmony. No matter whether you are choosing an opal gemstone due to its aesthetic value or its healing properties, the knowledge of the differences between Australian opal and Ethiopian opal will enable you to make an informed decision. In the following sections of this blog, the advantages of choosing these two different varieties of opal stone will be highlighted.

Origin & Formation Differences

When we talk about the formation of opals, we are diving deep into their spiritual and geological journey. Natural opal stones are formed in natural environments, and the way they come into being affects both their appearance and energy.

Let’s begin by understanding where these two opals come from and how they are formed, as their origins are a key part of their uniqueness.

• Australian Opal Formation:

The way Australian opals are formed in nature also makes them unique. When water containing silica enters cracks in the ground and then slowly evaporates, silica creates an everlasting matrix of opal deposits. Because of the length of time that it takes for an Australian opal stone to form, they have an inherent chemical stability and durability, thus making them the perfect gemstone for both jewellery and spiritual purposes.

Opals from Australia are created through the natural process of Mother Earth over millions of years in the dry terrains of Australia, giving Australian opal stones a direct tie to Earth's energy. Thus, they can serve as excellent tools to assist with healing, spiritual development, and emotional balance.

• Ethiopian Opal Formation:

The relatively new addition to the world of gemstones, opals from Ethiopia, have quickly gained resonance within the industry. While opals from Australia represent a far older formation process, Ethiopian opals represent a relatively new way for such stones to form, within a volcanic environment. The volcanic activity found in some parts of Ethiopia allows for a quicker formation of the stone than their Australian counterparts. Opals from Ethiopia tend to be lighter, softer, and more delicate, making them less durable than those from Australia.

Appearance & Colour Play Comparison

When we talk about appearance and colour play, fire opals are unique in a way that they display a mesmerising dance of colours, known as play-of-colour (also called “fire”). This beautiful phenomenon, which shows different hues when the stone is tilted under light, is what makes fire opals so beloved. Not only do opals with more fire look more beautiful, but they also bring better astrological results. The more fire an opal stone has, the stronger its positive effects.

Let’s see how these two varieties differ from each other in terms of “fire”, which is a crucial factor to consider when buying an opal gemstone for astrological wear:

• Australian Fire Opal:

Australian fire opal gemstones are famed for having a subtle or delicate play of colour (the way in which light interacts with a stone’s internal structuring). Australian white fire opals tend to be some of the best gemstones associated with Venus, as their beautiful, bright white colour, showing off vibrant flashes of red, blue and green colours, makes them perfect for Vedic astrological usage. These stones offer the best of opal benefits, which are amplifying Venusian traits (e.g., love, beauty, and creativity).

• Ethiopian Fire Opal: 

In contrast, fire opals from Ethiopia usually contain a more vibrant play-of-colour. These opals tend to produce dominant displays of green, yellow and pink. However, while the play-of-colour in Ethiopian fire opals is certainly impressive, the vibrancy of their colour displays will diminish with frequent wear and exposure to water. This makes Ethiopian opal stones less desirable in the long run.

Beware: A lot of Ethiopian opals with faint colour play are being labelled and sold as Australian fire opals in the market with an undeserved high price tag. So, make sure to buy your gemstones only from reputed sellers who have a history of credibility and trust.

Don’t Miss: Why Should You Trust Pramogh For Your Gemstone Needs?

Stability (Durability) Comparison

Opals are soft and fragile gemstones. With a Mohs scale hardness of 5.5 to 6.5, an opal stone is not the most long-lasting and durable gemstone one can wear. Unlike diamonds, sapphires, and quartz, opals are very much susceptible to scratches from everyday wear and tear.

On top of that, opals are basically hydrated amorphous silica, which means they contain high amounts of water and can absorb more water when in contact with liquids. This absorption property can temporarily change the colour and transparency of opal stones, making them one of a kind and fascinating, but also very delicate.

Let’s talk about the durability comparison of these two varieties: 

• Australian Opal:

Considering the aspect of stability, Australian opals clearly have the upper hand. This is due to the process of formation, which is slow, coupled with the fact that it forms in stable conditions, which takes hundreds and thousands of years to form inside the layers of Earth. As a result, this type of opal is stable and less prone to changes in temperature and humidity. This enables it to withstand the conditions in which it is used.

• Ethiopian Opal:

It has been reported that Ethiopian opals are hydrophane in nature, making them just as beautiful but more prone to damage. They are highly porous and more likely to absorb water, soap, oils and chemicals, just like a sponge. This absorption causes them to swell when in prolonged contact with liquids. Although they return to their usual state after drying out, this property can lead to cracks over extended use.

Expert Suggestion: If you intend to wear your opal gemstone daily, then it’s better to invest in Australian opals because they are less likely to get damaged with regular wear and tear.

Wearability & Astrological Effectiveness

For hundreds of years, opals were first viewed as beautiful gemstones and then later on became synonymous with the deity Venus (Shukra Grah) of Vedic astrology. Astrologically, white opal gemstones have a relationship with the planet Venus, which represents beauty, creativity, love, and abundance.

One must not forget that for a Vedic gemstone to show its full astrological potential and benefits, it needs to be in close contact with the body. In other words, it needs to be worn regularly.

Let’s take a closer look at how the two varieties of this Venus gemstone compare in terms of wearability and, hence, astrological effectiveness:

• Australian Opal:

Not only does it look stunning because of the intricate colours and patterns, but an Australian opal stone is a highly favourable gemstone for improving relationships, providing inner peace, and adding positive energy into one's life. Consequently, many astrologers promote white Australian fire opals for individuals in search of the alignment of their emotions and the pursuit of peace during difficult times.

• Ethiopian Opal:

Even though opals from Ethiopia also share astrological association with Venus, the fact that they often get degraded with regular wear and tear is something one should take notice of before buying this gemstone. Unfortunately, Ethiopian opals are more prone to cracking or becoming dull over time compared to their Australian counterparts. As a result, they require extra care to avoid damage, making them slightly less practical for everyday wear.

Price & Value Comparison

When considering which opal to purchase, price is an important factor for many buyers. Both types of opal stone are considered precious, but the opal price varies based on factors such as quality, size, and origin.

• Australian Opal Price:

The price of the Australian fire opals is slightly on the higher side, and higher-quality stones cost more due to their uniqueness. This can also be attributed to the fact that Australia was the leading producer of opals for centuries. The price of an Australian opal can vary depending on the kind of opal stone one is purchasing; for instance, black opal from Lightning Ridge is known as the most desired opal in the world.

The demand for Australian opal stones is very high due to their quality, uniqueness, and astrological effectiveness. White opal stone from Australia is one of the best gemstones one can wear for Venus upliftment in their natal chart.

• Ethiopian Opal Price:

Opals from Ethiopia, in general, tend to be less pricey, mainly due to their abundance and relative ease of mining compared to Australian opals. However, this may change depending on the size and quality of the item, but in general, Ethiopian opals tend to fall within a price range that, for most people, is not very prohibitive, as long as the buyer wants an opal gemstone which is of high quality.

Which Opal Is More Expensive?

In general terms, Australian opals are on the pricier side, especially as one goes up the value chain. Ethiopian opals have, however, made their presence felt in the market because of the relatively more affordable nature of their price.

Suggested Reading: How To Identify Original Opal Stone

Australian Opal vs Ethiopian Opal: A Quick Comparison 

The quickest and easiest way to get a good idea about the differences between Australian and Ethiopian opal stones is to look at this comparison chart:

Which Opal Stone Should You Buy?

When buying an opal stone, the decision should be based on the qualities you seek in your gemstone. First, both Australian opal stones and Ethiopian opal stones have unique qualities, but considering the spiritual value, healing energy, and longevity of the stone, the Australian opal gemstone could be the best option for you.

Here’s a brief overview of both varieties to help you make the best choice:

If You Seek Stability and Durability: Australian Opal Stone

Australian opals, for those who need gemstones which would be able to pass the test of time, both physically and spiritually, would be an excellent investment. Their deep connection to Venus and the Earth makes them perfect for people seeking emotional balance, creativity, and love. Their durability also ensures they are suitable for regular wear, and their lasting beauty makes them a valuable investment.

If You Seek Light Energy and Affordability: Ethiopian Opals

If you prefer more of a soft, lighter energy or if you prefer an opal with a more affordable price tag, the Ethiopian opal could work very well for you. They are more accessible, but keep in mind that they are also less durable, and you might have to compromise a little on the astrological results as well.

Conclusion

Carrying a special energy and beauty with them, both Australian opals and Ethiopian opals can elevate your life. Whereas Ethiopian opals are cherished for their delicate nature and affordability, Australian opals share the top in durability, intensity of colour, and spiritual strength. If you are searching for an effective gemstone for Venus in Vedic astrology that’s also long-lasting, then Australian fire opals may be your most resonating gemstone. They will offer not only timeless beauty but also a stronger connection to the planet Venus, which can bring emotional healing, creativity, and harmony into your life.

No matter which opal stone variety you choose, remember one thing: always go with your intuition to select the one that feels right for you. The perfect opal gemstone is more than just a precious stone; it's a strong companion on your path toward personal growth and spiritual alignment.

FAQs

• What is the best type of opal to buy?

Australian opals are generally considered the best because of their durability, stable colour play, and strong astrological benefits.

• Which is better, Ethiopian or Australian opal?

Australian opals are more suitable for long-lasting wear and colour display, which makes them suitable for daily wear and astrological purposes. Ethiopian opals are also attractive but are more delicate and fade with time.

• Which is the highest quality opal?

Australian opals, and those from Lightning Ridge in particular, are regarded as the best quality for their colours, rarity, and durability.

• Does Ethiopian opal fade?

Yes, Ethiopian opals do have the tendency to lose colour with time, especially when worn regularly and exposed to water, due to their hydrophane nature.

• Do Australian opals turn yellow?

No, it is generally not reported. Australian opals retain their colours for a long time, especially with proper maintenance.

• Which opal is most expensive?

The most valuable opals are the black opals from Australia. The opals from Lightning Ridge are the costliest.

• Do all Ethiopian opals turn yellow?

No, Ethiopian opals don’t always turn yellow. However, these opals are more likely to change colour and become more transparent due to their hydrophane property over time. They are more likely to absorb water, oil, and chemicals like a sponge over prolonged usage, which can make them look yellowish.