opal

noun

ˈō-pəl 

: a usually amorphous mineral that is a hydrated silica softer and less dense than quartz and typically with definite and often marked iridescent play of colors and is used especially as a gem

Examples of opal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The dial shows off Australian opal in full force, a dazzling stone that shifts between different shades of blue, depending on the light; the same material is used in between each of the 12 rotating cubes. — Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 8 Sep. 2026

Many precious stones—including sapphires, rubies, opals, and even diamonds—are also considered crystals, each believed to carry its own unique properties. — Kelsey Stiegman, InStyle, 7 Aug. 2026

Brown-Taher works with a variety of colorful materials including opal, mother of pearl, jade and malachite, and mixes them with diamonds, sapphires and amethysts. — Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 9 July 2026

Do not use Windex on softer gems like pearls, opals, or emeralds, because the ammonia may damage them. — Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 19 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin opalus, from Greek opallios, ultimately from Sanskrit upala stone, jewel

First Known Use

circa 1586, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing opal

• fire opal

Rhymes for opal

• copal
• propyl
• isopropyl

Kids Definition

opal

noun

ˈō-pəl 

: a mineral with changeable colors that is used as a gem