Ethiopian Welo Opal Graduated Semi-precious Gemstone Round Beads - 3mm - 8mm - 16'' Strand

Natural White Ethiopian Opal Graduated Semi-precious Gemstone Round Beads

Quantity: one strand approx 16" long

Size: approx 3mm - 8mm per stone. 1 x 8mm centre stone.

Opal beads hole size reference: approx 0.30mm

These beads are handmade so each strand will vary in shapes and sizes. Please allow for some wastage due to the nature of these beads.

Beads sizes do vary between different gemstones or even batches for the same gemstone. Please note that there could be a variation of up to 1mm - 1.5mm in size.

Many of the opals mined in Ethiopia, especially from the Welo deposits, are hydrophane opals. "Hydrophane" is a name used for a porous opal that has the ability to absorb water. A change in colour or transparency often accompanies the water absorption.

The nature of hydrophane opals means that absorbing water can enhance their fragile qualities. Avoid prolonged immersion in water. If stones absorb water, let them dry thoroughly before wearing. Depending on how much, they can take up to a week to dry.

Please ensure any jewellery is kept dry and away from prolonged periods of water.