Dendritic Opal 3x6mm Faceted Rondelle - 15-16 Inch R0916 It is also somewhat delicate

It is also somewhat delicate with a hardness ranging from 5-5

with points at both ends (double terminated)

and we offer it when we can

Abalone Shell is strong and is made of stacked calcium carbonate tiles

however it does not exhibit the play of color seen in precious Opal

Dendritic Opal 3x6mm Faceted Rondelle - 15-16 Inch R0916 It is also somewhat delicateThis variety of opal is named "dendritic" for the small inclusions within it that resemble moss or ferns. These inclusions consist of iron, manganese and other metallic oxides captured during the forming of the rock. Opals are hydrated amorphous forms of silica, created when silica hardens within the fissures of other stones.