Recently, we had the honour of creating a ring around this fascinating opal from Ethiopia. As is often the case with bespoke jewellery, the gemstone itself became the starting point of the design. From the very first moment, it was clear that this was no ordinary gemstone. Its vibrant colours and lively character immediately captivated the client and called for a jewel that would do justice to its beauty.
This Ethiopian opal, also known as a Welo opal, is renowned for its extraordinary play of colour. As light moves across the stone, flashes of red, orange, green, and blue appear and disappear, constantly changing its character. It is as if a small rainbow has been captured within the crystal.
Although opals have been treasured for centuries, Ethiopian Welo opals were only discovered in the 1990s. Since then, they have enchanted collectors and jewellery lovers around the world with their spectacular colours and remarkable transparency. Each stone is unique, containing its own universe of light and colour.
Meaning and Symbolism
Beyond its visual beauty, opal is often associated in gemstone traditions with creativity, intuition, and emotional depth. It is said to amplify feelings and bring to the surface what already exists within. Joy, inspiration, sorrow, or longing—the opal invites its wearer to connect more deeply with their inner world and to experience it fully.
A remarkable gemstone deserves a meaningful design. For this reason, the symbol of the Tree of Life was incorporated into the underside of the ring. It is a symbol that has inspired Eric for many years and one that frequently appears throughout his creations.
The roots of the Tree of Life represent our ancestors and the origins from which we come. The trunk symbolises the life we are living today, while the crown points towards the generations yet to come. It is a powerful symbol of connection, growth, and continuity.
In this way, the ring carries not only an exceptional opal but also a story that links generations together.
A deeply personal piece of jewellery that already feels destined to become a treasured heirloom for future generations.
