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 Toi et Moi, or You and Me, brooch combines opal with double rose-cut tourmaline, aquamarine, chrysoberyl, sapphire, spinel, tsavorite, quartz and white diamond. —David Belcher, New York Times, 26 Feb. 2025

Elsewhere, Tory Burch found enlightenment in a midcentury Jules Olitski sculpture, and designer Colleen Allen lit a candlestick to photograph through an opal, conjuring ideas of witchcraft. —Ari Stark, WWD, 4 Feb. 2025

Moore completed the look with Christian Louboutin shoes and Cartier jewels, including high-jewelry earrings crafted in 18-karat white gold and set with diamonds and opals. —Laurie Brookins, The Hollywood Reporter, 5 Jan. 2025

With a finish like mother of pearl or opal, ammonites have been mined, cut and polished into gemstones called ammolite. —Roger Catlin, Smithsonian Magazine, 31 Dec. 2024

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