Blue Indian Opal with Moss agate inclusions

This polished Shiva Lingham is a striking combination of Indian blue common opal and moss agate inclusions, sourced from Rajasthan, India. The soft blue base is contrasted by intricate, organic dendritic patterns, creating a natural landscape-like appearance formed through mineral deposition over time.

The smooth, elongated shape enhances both the visual flow of the patterns and the natural translucency of the material, allowing light to highlight internal structures and colour variation across the surface.

Key Features

Material: Common Opal with Moss Agate inclusions

Composition: Hydrated silica (SiO₂·nH₂O) with microcrystalline quartz inclusions

Colour: Soft blue, grey, white with green-brown dendritic inclusions

Patterning: Moss-like (dendritic) inclusions formed by mineral deposition

Finish: High polish

Form: Shiva Lingham (elliptical, symmetrical shape)

Uniqueness: One-of-a-kind natural patterning

Dimensions

Weight: 99 grams

Approx. Size: ~6.5 cm x 3.5 cm

Geological & Scientific Notes

Blue Opal (Common Opal):

This is a non-precious opal, meaning it does not display play-of-colour. Instead, its soft blue appearance comes from light scattering within hydrated silica spheres.

Moss Agate Inclusions:

The dendritic, moss-like formations are not organic material but are caused by mineral inclusions, typically involving iron, manganese, or other trace elements. In this material, darker inclusions may also involve carbon, sulphur, or titanium compounds, contributing to the contrast.

Formation Process:

This combination forms when silica-rich fluids deposit opal while simultaneously trapping or overgrowing mineral inclusions, creating layered and branching internal structures.

Material Relationship:

Opal: Amorphous hydrated silica

Moss Agate: Microcrystalline quartz (chalcedony)

→ This piece represents a natural interaction between amorphous and crystalline silica forms

Physical Properties

Mineral Class: Mineraloid (Opal) + Chalcedony (Quartz family)

Chemical Formula: SiO₂·nH₂O

Hardness (Mohs): ~5.5–6 (opal), ~6.5–7 (chalcedony inclusions)

Transparency: Translucent to opaque

Lustre: Waxy to vitreous

Structure: Amorphous (opal) with microcrystalline inclusions

Care Information

Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight (can cause dehydration in opal)

Keep away from high heat or very dry environments

Clean gently with lukewarm water and a soft cloth

Avoid chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners

Store separately to prevent scratches

Additional Notes

Often marketed as “Owyhee Blue Opal,” but this material is distinct and originates from India

Each piece is completely unique due to natural inclusion patterns

The polished Shiva Lingham form enhances both durability and display appeal