Opals of Kings and Queens: A Gemstone of Royalty

Opals of Kings and Queens: A Gemstone of Royalty

Throughout history, opal has dazzled not only common admirers but also the crowns of kings and queens. Its shifting rainbow of colours symbolised wealth, divine favour, and mystical power, making it a coveted jewel in royal treasuries across the world.

Ancient Royal Adornments

• Roman Emperors: The Romans adored opal, calling it “opalus” — meaning “precious stone.” Pliny the Elder famously described opal as containing the beauty of all other gems. Roman senators and emperors often wore opal rings as symbols of authority and prestige.

• Indian Royalty: Opal was linked to the goddess of the rainbow and considered a sacred stone of the gods. Indian maharajas prized opal as a stone of divine favour and adorned their regalia with it.

Medieval and Renaissance Courts

In medieval Europe, opals appeared in crowns, sceptres, and reliquaries. They were believed to:

• Protect rulers from harm.

• Strengthen the divine right of kings.

• Symbolise purity and wisdom.

During the Renaissance, opal regained popularity as a stone of artistry and transformation, worn by monarchs who wished to be seen as enlightened rulers.

Queen Victoria and the Revival of Opal

No monarch is more closely associated with opal than Queen Victoria. She adored the gem and often gifted opals to her children and relatives as wedding presents. Her affection for the stone:

• Sparked a revival of opal in Europe during the 19th century.

• Helped establish Australia’s opal fields as the world’s most important source.

• Associated opal with romance, family, and royal favour.

Other Royal Connections

• Napoleon Bonaparte: Gifted his Empress Joséphine a famous red opal called “The Burning of Troy”, celebrated for its fiery brilliance.

• Spanish Royals: Fire opals from Mexico were treasured in the Spanish courts after being brought back from the New World.

• Modern Royalty: Today, opals feature in collections such as the British Crown Jewels, where Australian opals are set in tiaras, brooches, and royal regalia.

Opal as a Symbol of Kingship

To rulers, opal embodied the qualities of good leadership:

• Wisdom: Its shifting colours represented insight into all perspectives.

• Power: Its fiery brilliance was seen as divine energy.

• Fortune: It was believed to attract prosperity to the realm.

Thus, opal was not just an adornment but a statement of sovereignty.

Conclusion – The Royal Flame

From Roman emperors to Victorian queens, opal has long been a gemstone of royalty and majesty. Its dazzling play-of-colour reflects both the splendour of power and the mystery of divine favour.

To this day, opal remains a jewel worthy of kings and queens — a gem that has ruled hearts and crowns alike.