Cacholong
Name
The name Cacholong is in all likelihood named after the first locality in Uzbekistan. Translated, Cacholong means "extraordinarily beautiful stone" after "cach" name of a creek in Uzbekistan and "cholong" stone.
Colour
The color of a cacholong is porcelain-like. white, milky and opaque.
Cut
The Cacholong is cut into round or oval cabochons or into another softly arched shape.
Mineral group
The Cacholong is a „common Opal“. Due to its white, porcelain-like color and structure, it is also known as milk opal or porcelain opal.
From a mineralogical point of view, these are real opals that, due to their opaque white color, do not opalize. The opal is a hydrous silica.
Locations
The most significant Cacholong occurrences are in Australia, where 95% of the world's opals are mined. Behind it lies Mexico with 4%. Altogether over 3000 localities are known.
Mohs scale
The Cacholong has hardness 5.5 - 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale.
The scale consists of a series of 10 minerals, each of which "scratches" all standing in front of him.
1 + 2 are scratched with the bare fingernail
1 - 5 are ritz bar with the knife
6 - 10 are bar with glass ritz
Care
The best way to care for the Cacholong with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. In case of heavy pollution you can add a mild dishwashing detergent, but then rinse with clear water and dry with a soft cloth.
Opals generally have a water content of 2-9%, which can easily be reduced over time due to improper handling, so they should be protected from any strong and prolonged heating, e.g. not be exposed for too long by direct sunlight.
Likewise, the Opal likes no sudden temperature jumps. For example, washing hands in the hot water.
The Opal is almost like any stone, sensitive to solvents, acids and alkalis, because these attack the surface and – with the finest cracks in the stone – also the interior of the opal, whereby he can lose brilliance and opalescence.
Acids, bases and solvents can be found in makeup, perfume, hair spray, soap and in the skin sweat. Fats and oils don’t harm an opal in most cases.
Power
The Cacholong (Opal) is said to support the healing effects of all metabolic diseases and help with kidney problems. It promotes digestion, detoxifies, relieves inflammation and strengthens the immune system. It also helps against cardiovascular diseases, dizziness and weakness, and poor circulation.
Birthstone
The Cacholong is considered the birthstone of the month of October.
Combination
White gold or silver fits best with the elegant porcelain color of the Cacholong. Combined with turquoise or lapiz lazuli, it recalls the Greek way of life, sitting at sunset in a Greek tavern with Ouzo and Tsatsiki.