Play of Color

The molecular structure of precious opal is a record of the peaceful and orderly deposition of perfectly rounded spheres of silica over millions of years. Opal contains more water than any other gem, also contributing to the unique activity of light inside the stone. Light passing through the layers of silica spheres diffuses and overlaps into an ever-shifting Play of Color.

This video exploration reveals 3mm vistas inside of Mexican opals, travelling through miniature caverns containing pastel nebulas. Filmed through an optical microscope using motorized micro equipment, & Play of Color is the first video to bring these scintillating landscapes to light at a small scale.