What is Hydrophane Opal?

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Most Welo Ethiopian opal is hydrophane, which means this material absorbs water similar to a sponge. These porous opals rapidly absorb water when submersed for a matter of minutes. We set up this video showing a time lapse of a hydrophane Ethiopian opal that is saturated with water and the phases it goes through as it dries.

The hydrophane characteristic is nothing to be alarmed about, but like with most opals, you do need to be cautious when wearing one. Washing your hands will have little to no effect on this hydrophane opal, but we would suggest avoiding bathing or swimming. If you do accidentally submerge your opal in water for too long, allow it to dry out for 3-7 days in a safe spot out of direct sunlight. The full color should return with no problems.