If you're looking for a gemstone that's truly unique, opals might be just what you're after. Opal stones are formed from silica-rich solutions that seep into cracks and cavities in rocks. As the water evaporates, it leaves behind tiny spheres of silica, which diffract light to create the characteristic play of color seen in opals. There are ways how to tell if opal is real or fake, which involves examining it closely and looking for play in colour. 

Opals come in a range of colors, including white, black, gray, red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple. The colors are caused by the way that the light is diffracted as it passes through the tiny spheres of silica. The most valuable and rarest type of opal is black opal, which is highly prized for its deep, rich colors. Fire opals, on the other hand, are known for their bright, vivid colors.

Types of opals

Here’s a list of different types of opals

Black Opal

The rarest and most valuable type of opal, with a dark body color and vivid play of color. Black opals are found mainly in Lightning Ridge, Australia, and are highly prized for their deep, rich colors. They are often used in high-end jewelry and are believed to bring good luck and fortune.

White Opal

A more common type of opal with a light body color and a subtle play of color. White opals are found in various locations in Australia, including Coober Pedy and Mintabie. They are less expensive than black opals and are popular in casual and everyday jewelry.

Boulder Opal

A type of opal that forms within ironstone boulders, creating a natural and unique look. Boulder opals are found mainly in Queensland, Australia, and are highly prized for their rich colors and intricate patterns. They are often used in high-end jewelry and are believed to bring protection and healing.

Crystal Opal

A type of opal with a transparent or semi-transparent body color and a vibrant play of color. Crystal opals are found mainly in Coober Pedy and Lightning Ridge, Australia, and are highly prized for their brightness and clarity. They are often used in high-end jewelry and are believed to bring creativity and inspiration.

Fire Opal

A type of opal with a yellow, orange, or red body color and a fiery play of color. Fire opals are found mainly in Mexico, but can also be found in Brazil and the United States. They are highly valued for their bright colors and are often used in fashion jewelry. In ancient Aztec culture, fire opals were believed to have protective powers and were used in various rituals.

Ethiopian Opal 

A type of opal found in Ethiopia, with a white, gray, or black body color and a vibrant play of color. Ethiopian opals are relatively new to the market and have quickly gained popularity for their unique play of color and affordability. They are often used in fashion jewelry and are believed to bring emotional balance and harmony.

Mexican Opal 

A type of opal found mainly in Mexico, with a white or brown body color and a subtle play of color. Mexican opals are valued for their delicate beauty and are often used in bohemian and artisanal jewelry. In ancient Mayan culture, Mexican opals were believed to have healing properties and were used in various medicinal practices.

History significance of Opals

Opals have a rich history and cultural significance, dating back to ancient times. In ancient Greece, opals were believed to bring their owners the power of prophecy and foresight. The Romans considered opals a symbol of hope and purity, and they were often given as gifts to newlyweds. In ancient Arabic culture, opals were believed to have fallen from the sky during thunderstorms and were considered a symbol of purity and faithfulness.

In modern times, opals have become a popular choice for engagement rings and other special occasion jewelry.

At our site, we offer a wide selection of opals in a variety of colors and types. Whether you're looking for a show-stopping black opal or a subtle white opal, we have something to suit every taste and budget. Our opals are sourced from reputable suppliers and are guaranteed to be of the highest quality.

Opal color code

Types of opals can vary where they can be used. Here’s a list of each place different opals are popular.

1. Black Opal - Black opals are highly valued for their rich colours and are often used in high-end jewelry such as necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. They are especially popular for use in engagement rings due to their rarity and beauty.
2. White Opal - White opals are more affordable than black opals and are often used in casual and everyday jewelry such as pendants, earrings, and bracelets. They are also popular for use in inlay work and as accents in other gemstone jewelry.
3. Boulder Opal - Boulder opals are highly prized for their natural and unique appearance, and are often used in statement jewelry such as necklaces and pendants. They are also popular for use in artisanal and bohemian jewelry due to their organic, earthy feel.
4. Crystal Opal - Crystal opals are highly valued for their clarity and brightness, and are often used in high-end jewelry such as engagement rings, necklaces, and earrings. They are also popular for use in custom jewelry designs, where their unique play of color can be showcased in creative ways.
5. Fire Opal - Fire opals are highly valued for their bright colors and are often used in fashion jewelry such as necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. They are especially popular in Mexican-style jewelry due to their origin, and are often paired with other colorful gemstones such as turquoise and coral.
6. Ethiopian Opal - Ethiopian opals are a relatively new addition to the market and are highly valued for their unique play of color and affordability. They are often used in fashion jewelry such as pendants, earrings, and bracelets, and are especially popular for use in bohemian and artisanal jewelry.
7. Mexican Opal - Mexican opals are highly valued for their delicate beauty and are often used in bohemian and artisanal jewelry such as necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. They are also popular for use in inlay work and as accents in other gemstone jewelry.

Overall, each type of opal has its own unique characteristics and uses, making them a versatile gemstone for a variety of jewelry styles and occasions. Whether you prefer the deep and rich colors of a black opal or the bright, fiery play of color in a Mexican fire opal, there's an opal for every taste and budget.

Care instructions for opals

When it comes to caring for your opal jewelry, it's important to remember that opals are relatively soft compared to other gemstones, so they require gentle care to avoid scratching or cracking. They should be stored away from other jewelry to avoid damage, and they should not be exposed to heat or chemicals.

Here's a Mohs Scale Chart according to opal type

Hardness of an opal directly effects how easily it will change in colour. 

In this chart we shall examine each type of opal according to hardness and how to care for it.

1. Black Opal - Black opals are quite hard, with a rating of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale. They are relatively resistant to scratches and chips, but can be damaged by sudden changes in temperature or by exposure to harsh chemicals. To care for black opals, avoid wearing them during activities that may damage them and store them separately from other jewelry. Clean them gently with a soft cloth and mild soap, and avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaning.
2. White Opal - White opals are also relatively hard, with a rating of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. However, they are more prone to cracking and chipping than black opals, so care must be taken to protect them from physical damage. Avoid exposing white opals to extreme temperatures or chemicals, and store them separately from other jewelry to prevent scratches. Clean them gently with a soft cloth and mild soap, and avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaning.
3. Boulder Opal - Boulder opals are often found in thin veins of host rock, and can be quite fragile. They have a hardness rating of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, and can be easily scratched or chipped if not handled carefully. To care for boulder opals, avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures or chemicals, and store them separately from other jewelry. Clean them gently with a soft cloth and mild soap, and avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaning.
4. Crystal Opal - Crystal opals are relatively hard, with a rating of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. They are resistant to scratches and chips, but can be damaged by sudden changes in temperature or exposure to harsh chemicals. To care for crystal opals, avoid wearing them during activities that may damage them and store them separately from other jewelry. Clean them gently with a soft cloth, and avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaning.
5. Fire Opal - Fire opals are quite soft, with a rating of 5.5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. They are more prone to scratches and chips than other types of opals, and can also be affected by changes in temperature and exposure to harsh chemicals. To care for fire opals, avoid wearing them during activities that may damage them and store them separately from other jewelry. Clean them gently with a soft cloth, and avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaning.
6. Ethiopian Opal - Ethiopian opal stone are relatively soft, with a rating of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. They are more prone to scratches and chips than other types of opals, and can also be affected by changes in temperature and exposure to harsh chemicals. To care for Ethiopian opals, avoid wearing them during activities that may damage them and store them separately from other jewelry. Clean them gently with a soft cloth and mild soap.
7. Mexican Opal - Mexican opals are relatively soft, with a rating of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. They are more prone to scratches and chips than other types of opals, and can also be affected by changes in temperature and exposure to harsh chemicals. To care for Mexican opals, avoid wearing them during activities that may damage them and store them separately from other jewelry. Clean them gently with a soft cloth and mild soap, and avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaning.

In general, opals should be stored separately from other jewelry to prevent scratches and tarnishing. They should also be protected from sudden changes in temperature, as this can cause cracking or discolouration. When cleaning opals, avoid using harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam cleaning. Instead, gently clean them with a soft cloth and mild soap, and rinse them in lukewarm water.

It's important to note that opals can absorb water and other liquids, which can affect their appearance and durability. To prevent this, avoid wearing opals while swimming or bathing, and remove them before applying lotion, perfume, or other beauty products.

In addition to proper care, it's also important to have opals checked regularly by a professional jeweler. They can inspect the setting and make sure that the stone is secure, and can also check for any signs of damage or discoloration.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your opals stay beautiful and radiant for years to come. With their unique play of color and natural beauty, opals are truly one of nature's most precious treasures.

Opals are a fascinating gemstone with a rich history and unique beauty. Whether you're a collector or simply looking for a special piece of jewelry, opals are sure to captivate you with their play of colors and individuality. 

Would you consider wearing opals?