Which of the following opal types is known for its transparency and vivid colors?

Crystal opal is recognized for its remarkable transparency and the vibrant colors it displays. This type of opal typically exhibits a clear or semi-transparent body that allows light to pass through, enhancing the visibility of its play-of-color, which is the phenomenon responsible for the opal's striking colorful displays. The combination of translucency and intense hues makes crystal opal particularly appealing to collectors and gem enthusiasts.

Conversely, black opal, while known for its dark background that enhances brightness and depth of color, does not typically exhibit the same level of transparency. White opal generally has a lighter body tone and often displays a less vivid play-of-color compared to crystal opal. Fire opal is characterized by its warm colors, such as orange or red, but usually lacks the transparency found in crystal opal, making it distinct in appearance. Thus, the attributes of crystal opal make it the correct choice for this question.