gemstone
Mexican Fire Opal
Hydrated amorphous silica (SiO2·nH2O)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 5.5-6.5 on the Mohs scale, vibrant orange-red color, vitreous to sub-vitreous luster, amorphous crystal structure, conchoidal fracture.
Identified More gemstone →
Explore Mexican Fire Opal in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 5.5-6.5 on the Mohs scale, vibrant orange-red color, vitreous to sub-vitreous luster, amorphous crystal structure, conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Formed in ancient volcanic hydrothermal environments where silica-rich groundwater filled cavities and fissures.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as a gemstone in rings, pendants, and earrings for fine jewelry.
Geological facts
Unlike many opals, Mexican fire opal is prized for its bright body color rather than its play-of-color.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its translucent to transparent fiery orange appearance and lack of significant internal flashes; predominantly sourced from mines in Queretaro and Jalisco, Mexico.
More like this
Other gemstone specimens
Ammolite
Ammolite (Biogenic Aragonite with trace elements; fossils of Placenticeras meeki and Placenticeras intercalare)
mineral
Gemstone Ring
N/A - Set piece of jewelry, likely Amethyst or Garnet with Diamond or CZ
gemstone
Topaz
Al2SiO4(F,OH)2
mineral
Amber
Succinite (Organic Gemstone)
mineral
Diamond and Gold Jewelry
Carbon (Diamond) / Au (Gold)
gemstone
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions
sedimentary