What type of opal typically shows bright orange to red colors due to its composition?

The type of opal that typically exhibits bright orange to red colors is fire opal. This variety of opal is characterized by its vibrant body color, which can range from yellow to orange and into red, making it unique among opals. Fire opal has a relatively low water content compared to other types and usually lacks the play-of-color seen in more traditional opals. Instead, its striking colors are primarily due to its internal structure and the presence of specific minerals within the stone, which enhances its optical properties.

In contrast, black opal often displays a dark body tone with vibrant color flashes but does not specifically lean towards orange or red. White opal typically has a light body color, either white or pale shades, and may show some color play, but again, it does not usually feature the rich orange and red hues that define fire opal. Crystal opal can also possess bright colors, but it generally has a transparent or translucent quality that allows for the display of play-of-color rather than the solid, vivid orange to red that distinguishes fire opal.