Mexican Matrix Opal Gemstones

  • Hardness

    5.5 - 6.5 on the Mohs scale.

  • Occurrence

    Australia, former Czechoslovakia, U.S., Brazil, Mexico and southern Africa. Opal and tourmaline are the birthstones of the month of October.

  • Appearance

    Orangish yellow to dark red, usually with exceptional fire. These opal are cut en-cabochon along with the original rock they are found in (Matrix).

  • Enhancements

    Mexican matrix opal is commonly treated with a sugar solution infilling in acid bath to darken the background and enhance color play and intensity.

    More information on gemstone enhancements.

  • Gemstone Family

    Mexican Matrix Opal is a member of the Opal gemstone family.