Louisiana Opal was found in the Catahoula Formation in Vernon Parish, Louisiana. The only commercial producer was the Hidden Fire Opal Mine which operated on leased land and was closed down in the early 1990’s. Only small quantities were mined and rough material, in quantity, is very difficult to find. This rarity combined with the mix of colors in the stone means it is regarded as a precious opal. Louisiana Opal, on the Mohs Scale of hardness, is rated as 5.5 to 6 but can be rated higher almost to a 7 on individual pieces.

Louisiana Opal is formed in sandstone where the sand grains are cemented together by opal. This means that the opal is very stable and can be cut into cabochons without the need for any protective backing or treating. When the polished stone is seen under light, either natural or artificial, it will show the the full play of colors previously hidden within the stone.  

Most of the rough Louisiana Opal has a light gray or brown base color but it also occurs in a dark gray to black color which highlights the opal colors to a greater degree. These colors can include purple, green, red, blue, teal, gold and aqua. Louisiana Opal is now used mainly in cabochons.  Spheres and some carvings were made when the supply of opal was more plentiful but are now few and far between.

Louisiana Opal’s metaphysical properties are similar to Andamooka Rainbow Opal Matrix in that it releases inhibitions, helps to release anger, brings comfort during fear or grief, strengthens memory and encourages freedom and independence. It also increases creativity and original thoughts and aids in stimulating intuition and insight. It helps you work towards fulfilling  your deepest desires, dreams and ambitions and to work with your spiritual and animal guides.

 Louisiana Opal is now a very rare stone which will grow even more scarce as time moves on.

By Neville Ryan

EarthGallery.com