Andean Opal Celeste Point · Peru

Hand-carved Peruvian Andean opal point from our workshop, 22.2 × 12.2 × 5.5 mm. Hexagonal tower in translucent sky blue with minimal pinpoint inclusions. One of the cleanest tones this deposit produces: a watery blue-sky blue with a soft luminosity that only opal offers when light passes through it. Unique piece.

Piece Details

This particular piece

The purity of the tone defines this point. The translucent sky blue is homogeneous and clean, with just a few pinpoint inclusions that emphasize the clarity of the background. Under transmitted light, the piece illuminates with a watery quality difficult to find in opals of this size without resorting to high-end Australian material.

The 22.2 mm length allows light to travel through the entire mass and generate maximum translucent effect. The slender proportion (5.5 mm depth) reduces weight without sacrificing visual presence, ideal for everyday pendants.

How Andean opal is formed

Andean opal is amorphous hydrated silica (SiO₂·nH₂O) precipitated in cavities of Tertiary volcanic rocks in the Peruvian Andes. The sky blue color comes from traces of copper trapped during formation. Lacking a crystalline structure, it transmits light with that characteristic milky-water quality. Its tendency to absorb moisture explains the preventive resin stabilization we carry out in the workshop.

What setting it works for

• Pendant with 925 silver bezel setting — the elongated shape and thin profile (5.5 mm) allow this point to be mounted as a vertical pendant; a clean, high-craftsmanship jewelry result.
• Enveloping wire wrap — the regular outline facilitates a symmetrical wrap in 925 silver or copper; the translucence creates a play of shadows on the sky blue that varies with the angle of the light.
• Statement ring (open gallery) — the 22x12 mm proportion is compatible with wide open gallery rings that allow the translucence to be appreciated from the back.

Andean opal in lapidary tradition

Peruvian opal is mainly extracted in Huánuco and Pasco, at an altitude of over 3,000 meters in the central Andes. Colonial chroniclers documented its ornamental use among Andean peoples since the 16th century. It arrived in the European lapidary market in the late 19th century as an alternative to Australian opal: without spectral play of colors but with a distinctive blue-sky blue that many collectors equate to chrysocolla or Dominican larimar.

In crystal tradition, it is associated with mental clarity and listening — that of someone who understands before speaking.

The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice.

How to recognize genuine Andean opal

Uniform sky blue color, vitreous appearance, and true translucence: light passes through, it doesn't just reflect on the surface. No spectral play of colors. Colder and lighter than quartz of the same volume. Under magnification: compact microtexture and occasional natural microfractures. Glass imitations show perfect spherical bubbles and lack the density variations of real opal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is resin stabilization?

Andean opal can absorb moisture and develop microfractures. We have applied transparent resin by impregnation as a preventive measure — it does not alter the color or visual appearance. Declared treatment, common for this type of opal.

Can it be set in 925 silver?

Yes, with the usual precautions for gems of 5.5–6.5 Mohs. We recommend a closed bezel to protect the thin edges. The 5.5 mm profile fits well in medium-depth settings.

How is it cared for?

Dry or slightly damp cloth. No ultrasonics, steam, or harsh chemicals. No prolonged immersion. More in our jewelry care guide.

See also: lapidary collection · available cabochons.