Black Matrix Opal Is a porous white Opal found only in  Andamooka, Australia is known as Black Matrix Opal or Mass Opal.

It has been popular since the 1950’s when it was discovered that this very white opal could be dyed almost black giving the colour patterns in the opal a better background in which to dance and play. It is usually dark ironstone, but occasionally a light sandstone.

“Black” is a generic term for the base or background color after the Andamooka Opal Matrix stone has been treated.

“Opal” is basically silica which has retained small water content sio2 and a nh2o with variations from almost worthless opal silica without fire(potch), through to high grade gem opal silica with fire.

“Matrix” the matrix is a host stone where the opal silica has infused into it.

Process-:

• Matrix opal is cut and polished.
• Soaked in a sugar solution.
• Boiled in sulphuric acid depositing carbon in the available pore spaces which enhances its colour.
• Demonstration of this process can be found at Opulent Opals.

Hardness-: 5.5-6.5 on the Mohs scale with the trigonal crystal structure.

Lustre-: Sub-vitreous to waxy.

Transparency-: Opaque, translucent, transparent and is usually seen cut into carvings, cabochons  and beads and is occasionally faceted.

Birthstone-: October.

Zodiac Sign-: Cancer, Libra, Pisces and Scorpio, and said to be ruled by Mercury.

Occurrence-:  Andamooka , South Australia.

Metaphysical Properties-:

• Highly protective and is a stone of inspiration.
• Opals are said to be very powerful in ritual magic.
• The human body needs all seven color-rays to maintain healthy function.
• Associated with the assimilation of proteins.
• It helps one release inhibitions and enhance memory.