About Us
Lelibela Gemstones started providing Precious opals, gem stones and jewelries in Ethiopia in 2000.
The opals are originated from a discovery made in the Menz Gishe District in the northern part of the Shewa Province. Opal from this area occurs in a wide range of body colors. Much of the opal has a brown, red, or orange body color; however, yellow, white, and clear body colors are also found.
It is found in stratified igneous rocks such as rhyolite, tuff, and ignimbrite. Although much of this opal has crazing problems, some stable material does enter the gem and jewelry market. These opals are often called “Shewa opals” or “Mezezo opals” after their locality of origin.
The most important opal discovery in Ethiopia was made in 2010 near the town of Wegel Tena in the Wollo Province in the northern part of the country.
This opal can have vivid play-of-color flashing from a body-color of clear, white, yellow, orange, or brown. It is much more stable than the North Shewa opal. This material quickly became known in the trade as “welo opal,” but the names “wollo” and “wello” are also encountered.
All items are in stock and ready to ship immediately. We ship only with fully insured USPS or ups shipping. Shipping is always free on all orders including world wide orders.
We offer a full refund on all products as long as it has not been altered in anyway. we will also pay for return shipping. Opal must be returned in the exact condition received within 5 days of purchasing. We must be connected within 48 hours to confirm you are making a return before sending opal back. Rough opals singles and parcels must be returned untouched no pieces removed or cut in any way. Upon inspection of rough parcels or single pieces then a refund will be issued. We always describe and photo/video our opals so you see exactly what you are buying no surprises.