Crystal opal refers to precious opal that has no body color. Shown above is a faceted crystal opal from Mexico. There is a strong play of color in this stone that is most evident under bright sunlight. The above stone was photographed using diffuse frontal illumination to show how the stone appears indoors with typical lighting. Under this lighting the stone looks like an ordinary piece of faceted colorless quartz. This gem is actually a "contra luz" opal. When illuminated from the rear by a bright point source of light the stone comes alive with shimmering feathers of color (rear illumination by a point source.) This expertly crafted opal would make a beautiful additon to a gemstone collection. If a skilled jeweler could design a setting that would allow light to enter from the rear, it would also make a most unusual centerpiece in a pendant.

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