Green Opal

About

Green Opal Crystal Green opal is a hydrated silica mineraloid (SiO2·nH2O) — amorphous, meaning it lacks a repeating crystal structure and does not display the play-of-color seen in precious opal. Instead, green opal is valued for its opaque-to-translucent body in shades of pistachio, mint, and apple green. Mohs hardness is 5.5-6. The most commercially available green opal comes from Madagascar, with deposits also in Peru, Tanzania, and Australia. Green opal's color is caused by inclusions of nickel-bearing silicates or trace amounts of iron and copper within the silica matrix. Madagascan green opal became widely available in the early 2000s and quickly gained popularity for its vivid color and affordability. It is sometimes marketed as "pistachio opal" or "Madagascan jade," though it is not related to true jade . This collection features polished freeforms, palm stones , tumbled stones , spheres , hearts, and raw specimens. Green opal pairs beautifully with green aventurine , malachite , and serpentine . Browse our full opal collection for other varieties. Free shipping on all U.S. orders over $150. Frequently Asked Questions What is green opal? Green opal is a common opal variety — a hydrated silica mineraloid (SiO2·nH2O) with a green body color. Unlike precious opal, it does not display play-of-color. It is amorphous (no crystal structure) with a Mohs hardness of 5.5-6. Its green color comes from nickel or iron/copper trace elements in the silica matrix. Is green opal the same as jade? No. Green opal is a silica mineraloid; jade is either nephrite (an amphibole) or jadeite (a pyroxene). They are completely different minerals. Some sellers market green opal as "Madagascan jade," but this is a trade name, not a mineralogical identification. True jade is harder (Mohs 6-7) and denser. Where does green opal come from? The most commercially available green opal comes from Madagascar, where it is mined in large quantities. Peru produces a notable green-blue variety calle