According to Opals Down Under--Australian experts in mining, cutting and selling opals--the gemstone was precious to early cultures because it brought forth inner emotions and lessened inhibition. Queen Victoria loved opals and had a collection of opal jewelry. Today, South Wales and Australia are the leading producers of opal. Opal rings are available in many colors.
Ancient Rome
The Romans considered the opal a token of purity. Legend says that Marc Antony wanted to give an opal ring to Cleopatra. Nonius, the senator who owned the ring, fled so he wouldn't have to give it to Marc Antony.
Eighteenth Century
Many cultures admired the opal until the late 18th century, when King Alfonso XIII of Spain gave his wife an opal ring. She died soon afterward.
The Myth of Bad Luck
When his wife died, the ring was given to other family members. Each one died, and eventually the king died when he wore the ring. There was a cholera epidemic at the time, but many people began to suspect opals were bad luck.
Nineteenth Century
Queen Victoria (1837 to 1901) loved opals and wore opal necklaces and rings. She gave opal jewelry to her friends and made opal rings popular again.
Present
Today, people still admire opals. In fact, some brides choose opals instead of traditional diamonds for their engagement rings.
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