Ookhal
Pestle.

Oordhwaretaa
Observers of Brahmcharya - abstinence.

Opal
Opal is supposed to be a gem but it is not described in any Hindoo religious texts. Opals are flashy stones that capture the colors of the rainbow deep within themselves. There are many different varieties and colors of opals, like dark or black opals, white or light opals, milk or crystal opals, Mexican or fire opals. Within each of those varieties, the brilliance of the "play of color" is the most important factor in determining its value.

Black opal has the most brilliant colors and is the most valuable. The milky white opal is the better recognized and most affordable type of opal because the play of colors is more diffused. Opal has symbolized hope, innocence and purity through the ages. In the Middle Ages, opal was considered a stone that could provide great luck because it was believed to possess all the virtues of each gemstone whose color was represented within the opal. Opals refract light and then reflect it in a play of colors. Opals can be found in a wide selection of colors and patterns.

Water is the main ingredient of opals, so do not allow them to dry out. Opals are easily scratched, especially when set in a ring. They can also be easily shattered either by hitting them or a rapid change in temperature.

Opals help with spiritual and religious life, finances, family life, and they improve one's beauty. They help develop the ability to foretell the future, and many astrologers use them for this purpose. They can also help with legal cases. With use, opals become dull. After some time, they should be replaced. Opal is a soft stone and can contain up to 20% of water, it should be protected from heat and strong light, which can dry it out and cause it to crack. Extra care should also be taken to protect opals from scratches, sharp blows and household chemicals.

Opals are used as birthstones too. They are said to be good for those born in October. For ages people have been believing in the healing power of Opal. It is reported to be able to solve depressions and to help its wearer find the true and real love. Opals are supposed to further enhance the positive characteristics for people born under the zodiac sign of Cancer. Black Opal is recommended to those born under Scorpio, and Boulder Opal is the lucky stone for Aries.

The fantastic color play of Opal reflects changing emotions and moods of people. Fire and water, the sparkling images of Boulder Opal, the vivid light flashes of Black Opal or the soft shine of Milk Opal – striking contrasts characterize the colorful world of this fascinating gemstone. Maybe this is the reason why it depends on our daily mood which Opal we prefer. Opals are like human emotions: you always experience them different and new.