White opals, like all opal varieties, possess what is called an amorphous structure, which means they do not have a defined crystalline structure. This is quite unusual for gemstones, which are typically valued for their crystal form and clarity. The amorphous nature of opal is due to the way silica gel dries out and hardens over time. This characteristic allows opals to take on a wide variety of shapes and forms, often with unique inclusions or irregularities that contribute to each stone’s unique beauty and personality. This lack of a fixed crystal structure is also responsible for the opal’s signature play-of-color, making them distinct from all other gemstones.
