Radiating a colorful fire from deep within, the opal has been prized since antiquity. Within its depths one sees the rich variety of colors for which other gems are famed: the purple of amethyst, the red of ruby, the sea green of emerald, as well as gold and silver. The matrix for these sparks ranges in hue from milky white to bright blue, to black. Mines in Hungary have produced fine opals since the Middle Ages but the best modern source for the gem is considered to be Australia. The name of the gem is said to derive from the word Ophthalmius, pertaining to the eye, and the stone is valued for its ability to avert evil. In the east, opals are much sought after as amulets to protect the wearer from disease. The stone is also said to improve the eyesight. Any person gazing upon this brilliant gem will be rewarded with beauty.