Ethiopian Opal / Welo Opal 2 stud earrings / cabochon / new- 1.36 g - (2)

2 Ethiopian Opal stud earrings / cabochon / new Set in 925 sterling silver Total weight: 1.36 g / 6.8 ct 8.0 mm x 5.8 mm x 16.7 mm New and unworn Opals from Australia have long been known. In recent years, however, a new variety from Ethiopia has begun to steal a bit of their spotlight: the Welo opal! This stone is translucent and captivates with its characteristic, unique play of light. It was discovered in the Semien Wollo mountain region in northeastern Ethiopia. The exact time of its discovery is not known. Some sources date the introduction of the Welo opal to the Nairobi market in 1993. The discoverer is regarded as chemist Tilahun Yohannes, and as early as 1994 geologist Dr. N. Barot reports in an article in the ICA Gazette about this gemstone novelty. Mining began slowly; in 1997 only 10 kilograms were mined. The gemstone cutter Eyaopal from Addis Ababa cut 400 grams from it. In the same year the Welo opal was presented at the International Mineral Fair in Sainte-Marie, and a year later Eyaopal showcased 350 cut opals at the trade fair in Tucson. Commercial mining began in 2008. A new star among opals was born. Shipping as insured registered mail

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