The name Opal has its origins in the Sanskrit word "upala," which means "precious stone." This word was adopted into Greek as "opallios" and later into Latin as "opalus." The name was likely inspired by the beautiful gemstone of the same name, known for its remarkable play of colors.

The earliest recorded use of the name Opal dates back to ancient Rome, where it was used as a gemstone name. However, its use as a given name did not become widespread until the 19th century, when it gained popularity in English-speaking countries.

One of the earliest recorded individuals with the name Opal was Opal Whiteley, an American writer and diarist born in 1897. Her diary, published in 1920, gained considerable attention and sparked debates about its authenticity.

Another notable Opal from history was Opal Kunz (1894-1967), an American architect and one of the first women to establish a successful architectural practice in the United States. She was known for her residential and commercial designs in the Los Angeles area.

In the realm of literature, Opal Plath (1905-1963) was an American novelist and poet, best known for her novel "The Curve of the Tusk." She was also the mother of the famous poet Sylvia Plath.

Opal Tometi (born 1984) is a contemporary American human rights activist and co-founder of the Black Lives Matter movement. She has been widely recognized for her advocacy work and has received numerous awards and honors.

Opal Priscilla Tometi (1917-1994) was an American civil rights activist and educator from Oklahoma. She played a significant role in desegregating public schools in the state and advocated for equal educational opportunities for African American students.

The name Opal has been associated with various historical figures who have made their mark in different fields, ranging from literature and architecture to activism and civil rights. Its connection to the precious gemstone has added to its allure and enduring popularity as a given name.