Rough Opal in Matrix — Virgin Valley, Nevada
About This Specimen
This rough opal specimen from Virgin Valley, Nevada, features a milky white to pale blue-gray seam running through contrasting tan-brown host material. Its upright profile exposes both translucent opal and rugged matrix textures, with fine surface fractures visible in several areas.
Specimen Details
- Mineral / Specimen Type: Rough common opal in matrix
- Locality: Virgin Valley, Nevada, USA
- Form & Structure: Massive, seam-filling opal within rough host material
- Color: Milky white to pale blue-gray opal with cream, tan, and brown matrix
- Rarity: Common as a mineral material, with added collector interest from the supplied Virgin Valley locality
- Mohs Hardness: 5.5–6.5
- Luster: Waxy to vitreous on exposed opal surfaces; earthy on the host material
- Chemical Formula: SiO₂·nH₂O
- Specimen Size: Miniature
- Dimensions: 2.7 × 1.9 × 4.2 cm
- Specimen Weight: 14.8 g — mineral only
- Total / Display Weight: 62 g
About Opal
Opal is an amorphous, hydrated silica mineraloid rather than a crystalline mineral. It occurs in both precious varieties that display play-of-color and common varieties without that optical effect; this photographed piece appears to be common opal, with no distinct play-of-color visible under the supplied lighting.
Traditional & Metaphysical Associations
In crystal and spiritual traditions, opal is associated with creativity, inspiration, emotional expression, and personal reflection. Some collectors use it as a symbolic focus for meditation or intention-setting, while others simply appreciate its soft color and organic patterning. Metaphysical properties are based on traditional beliefs and are provided for cultural and informational purposes; they are not scientifically established or intended as medical advice.
Why This Specimen?
The pale opal seam creates a strong visual path through the textured tan matrix, and the narrow upright shape displays well from multiple angles. Its locality and clear contrast between opal and host material make it an approachable example for a regional or systematic collection.
Exact specimen pictured. You will receive the exact specimen shown in the photographs.