Dendritic Opal cabochons with Sterling Silver earwires. The earwires are approximately one inch in length. The drops are approximately 0.8 inches in length. The total earring length is 1.2 inches. Dendritic Opal has dark dendritic, tubular, or orbicular markings, which is most often composed of Manganese. The dendrites (plumes) often appear to be shaped like mosses, ferns, or trees. Opal is a hydrated amorphous form of silica; its water content may range from 3 to 21% by weight, but is usually between 6 & 10%. Because of its amorphous character, it is classed as a mineraloid, unlike crystalline forms of silica, which are classed as minerals. It is deposited at a relatively low temperature & may occur in the fissures of almost any kind of rock, being most commonly found with limonite, sandstone, rhyolite, marl, & basalt. The internal structure of precious opal makes it diffract light. Depending on the conditions in which it formed, it can take on many colors. Dendritic Opal & Sterling Silver Earrings Handmade By Chris Hay
