Dainty Rough Opal Side Set Sterling Silver Ring

Handmade natural rough opal sterling silver hammered ring.
Stone size 5-6mm

The name Opal is derived from the Sanskrit word "upala", meaning "valuable stone". This is believed to be the root word for the Greek term "opallios", which translates as "color change".

Opal is thought to have been discovered as long as 4,000 years ago, and myths and lore abound in practically all cultures about this brilliant gemstone. The ancient Greeks thought opal to be the tears of Zeus and prized it as highly as diamonds. They believed opal gave the gift of foresight and prophecy, which would ensure the owner's success in war, business and life.

The legend of the Australian aborigine tells that opal is 'creator's footprint that touched the earth at the base of a rainbow to bring harmony'.

The ancient Romans wore opal as a symbol of hope and purity and believed it could cure illness. In ancient India, opal was referred to as the Goddess of the Rainbow, turned to stone. Ancient Arab cultures believed opal had fallen from the sky and that the play of color was trapped lightning. According to Arab lore, opal could make the wearer invisible. The ancient Australian aborigines, however, believed in a more sinister origin. They thought opal to be half serpent and half devil, and that the brightly colored fire within the stone was an attempt to lure them into the devil's lair.

Opal has been thought to have healing powers in many world cultures, and in the middle ages, it became known as the Opthalmius, or Eye Stone, and was thought to strengthen eyesight. Blonde maidens wore opals to protect their hair from fading or darkening.

In the Middle Ages, Opal was considered a stone that could provide great luck because it was believed to possess all the virtues of each gemstone whose color was represented in the color spectrum of the opal.

Jewelry’s been rocking humanity’s vibe for eons, as amulets, talismans, and symbols of power and protection. Archaic Elements is on a mission to revive that deep love and emotion, crafting pieces that resonate with your heart and soul. Sara taps into ancient cultures and history, conjuring up one-of-a-kind treasures that’ll strike a chord in your soul🌟