Fire Opal on Matrix from the Carbonera Mine, Mexico

This fire opal specimen comes from the Carbonera Mine near La Trinidad in the municipality of Tequisquiapan, Querétaro, Mexico. Bright orange opal occurs within a pale volcanic matrix.

The fire opal forms a compact, irregularly bounded area within the rock. Its vivid orange color contrasts clearly with the whitish to cream-colored matrix. The surface shows a waxy to slightly vitreous luster. Measuring 3.2 × 2.2 × 2.2 cm, the piece belongs to the miniature specimen size category.

Fire Opal from the Carbonera Mine

The Carbonera Mine near La Trinidad is one of Mexico’s well-known localities for fire opal and precious opal. Opal in various colors and forms has been documented from this mine.

The opals of the region occur in volcanic rocks. Silica-bearing fluids entered cavities and fractures within the rhyolite. The deposition of hydrous silica produced opal areas in a variety of colors. An orange to reddish body color is characteristic of fire opal.

The vivid orange opal, pale rhyolite matrix, and precise locality information make this piece a characteristic specimen from the Carbonera Mine.