What Is The Meaning Of Opal And What Does It Symbolize?
Opal is a gemstone rich in meaning and symbolism, with a history that spans cultures and centuries.
- Hope, innocence, and purity: In mystical circles, opal is seen as a stone that embodies these virtues along with happiness, faithfulness, loyalty, and confidence.
- Luck: Historically, opal was regarded as a lucky stone. People believed that an opal would take on the qualities of other gemstones whose colors it displayed, such as blue for sapphire.
- Birthstone significance: Opal is the birthstone for October and is also given as a gift for the 14th and 18th wedding anniversaries.
- Healing powers: Some traditions hold that opal can help with eye infections and diseases and enhance other healing processes. We also found that the Greeks believed it could bestow the power of prophecy and invisibility.
Meaning Of The Different Colors Of Opal
- White: Associated with purity and absorbing negative energy.
- Black: Linked to protection, power, and mystery.
- Red/Fire: Represents passion, energy, and creativity.
- Blue: Symbolizes calm and communication.
- Green: Connected to healing and renewal.
Mythology and Cultural Symbolism
In Greek mythology, opals were believed to be the solidified tears of Zeus after his victory over the Titans. Additionally, Indian legend connects the gemstone to the Goddess of Rainbows, who turned to stone to escape the advances of other gods. Lastly, Arabic lore claims opals fell from the sky in flashes of lightning, capturing their fire forever.
Cleopatra’s Barge in Naples, FL
At Cleopatra’s Barge in Naples, FL, we offer opal jewelry as part of our curated fine jewelry collection. We showcase various jewelry pieces—such as rings and pendants—crafted in 14k or 18k gold, often accented with diamonds or other gems. Our team helps customers browse our selection or work directly with our designer, Marilyn Janss, to create custom jewelry tailored to your taste and budget. We guide you through the process, from selecting loose opals to finalizing your unique design, ensuring you receive a one-of-a-kind piece. We also provide services like redesigning existing jewelry, appraisals, and jewelry care, so you can update or maintain your opal treasures.
Click here to learn more about this gemstone.
About Marilyn Janss and Cleopatra’s Barge
I’m Marilyn Janss, the owner and founder of Cleopatra’s Barge Fine Jewelry here in Naples, Florida. I moved to Naples from New York City in 1966 with my husband, and shortly after, I opened my first store on Third Street South. I named it Cleopatra’s Barge after the first oceangoing yacht built in the U.S. in 1816, which seemed fitting given my love of Egyptology and the sea. At the time, Naples was a quiet place, and I was the first local jeweler to design and manufacture fine jewelry here.
One of my proudest creations is the Naples Medallion, which I designed and copyrighted in 1992. It features an etched image of the iconic Naples Pier, a place dear to many locals and visitors alike.
My journey into jewelry design was somewhat accidental—I took classes in Punta Gorda and learned from some incredible jewelers, including those who worked for Tiffany & Co., Cartier, and Van Cleef & Arpels in New York. I also learned diamond setting from a master jeweler I met by chance. These experiences helped me create unique, custom pieces that have become a hallmark of Cleopatra’s Barge.
After more than 50 years in the same location, I recently moved the store to a new space above Bice’s Restaurant on Fifth Avenue South to better focus on custom work, repairs, and special orders. I’m grateful for the loyal customers who have supported me through the decades, and I remain passionate about designing and redesigning jewelry that people love to wear.
