Pink Opal
The Soft Comforter of the Heart
Also known as: Pink Common Opal, Andean Opal
About the stone
Pink opal is a typically opaque, blush-to-rose variety of common opal, valued for its soft color rather than the rainbow “play-of-color” of precious opal; in Peruvian material, organic compounds called quinones produce the pink hue. No single discoverer or first-discovery date is firmly established for the variety, but Peruvian opal entered the Tucson gem trade in 1983, and fine pink material from Peru’s Ica district became prominent during the late 1990s. Notable sources include Peru—particularly Ica—as well as Mexico’s Durango region and parts of Oregon and Idaho in the United States. Peruvian material is also sold as “Peruvian pink opal,” “pink Andean opal,” or “Andean opal,” although the last name also covers blue material. Modern crystal lore associates pink opal with compassion, emotional comfort, self-love, and the heart chakra.
Mineral data
- Chemical composition: Pink Opal is a common opal, a hydrated amorphous silica (SiO2·nH2O) with no play of color, colored a soft milky pink.
- Hardness: 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale.
- Color: Light pink and white.
- Specific gravity: 2.09 g/cm3
- Refractive index: 1.34-1.47
Metaphysical data
Pink Opal, cherished for its tender, comforting energy, has been used in metaphysical practices to soothe the heart, cool tempers and bring calm to fearful or overworked people.
Grounding and Stabilizing Energy
- Pink Opal is believed to reduce fear and increase calm, giving a soft sense of safety that settles the body and mind.
- It is considered a good stone for children with fears or nightmares, and is often tucked near the bedside as a comforting presence.
Emotional Healing
- Pink Opal is often used to help heal a broken heart by aiding in acceptance, so that one can move on with an open heart.
- It is thought to be a stress reliever for caregivers, helping to release tension and pent-up aggression that build up from giving so much of oneself.
Harmonizing Energy Centers
- Pink Opal is associated with the heart chakra, the energy center of love, compassion and emotional openness.
- In relationships it is believed to cool hot tempers and increase feelings of love, compassion and sentimentality, helping hearts soften toward one another.
Zodiac Associations
- Pink Opal is traditionally linked with the zodiac sign of Libra, the sign of relationships, harmony and fairness.
- It vibrates to the number 4, a number of stability and steady foundations, which suits the stone's calm and reliable support of loving bonds.
Spiritual Growth
- Pink Opal is thought to encourage an open heart that can accept what has happened and move forward without bitterness.
- In meditation it may help one practice tenderness toward oneself and others, a quiet foundation for compassion and emotional growth.
Physical Healing
- Pink Opal is not a substitute for professional medical advice, and its physical associations are traditional beliefs only.
- It is most often valued as a stress reliever, offering a symbol of rest to caregivers and anyone carrying tension in the body.
Care and handling
Pink Opal contains water, so avoid heat, long hours in direct sun and sudden temperature changes, which can fade or craze it. Some people like to soak it in water briefly now and then, which suits this stone, but do not leave it soaking for long or use hot water. Clean it with a soft cloth and mild soap, and avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners. At 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale it scratches easily, so store it wrapped apart from harder stones.
Individual experiences with Pink Opal vary, and its comfort is a matter of personal belief. Use it with tenderness, let it be a soft reminder to care for your own heart, and seek support from people and professionals when you need it.