Exploring Opals: Different Types of Opals and How to Care for Opals
Opals have been considered captivating gemstones for centuries, renowned for their iridescent play of colours that appear to dance within the stone. These unique and mesmerising gemstones come in a variety of types, each with its own distinct characteristics and properties. It can be somewhat of a minefield when researching opals with an aim to buying one, so this blog will try to break it down in the simplest way. We will delve into the different types of opal and provide valuable information on how to care for opals to ensure they retain their stunning allure for generations to come.
How is an opal formed?
Opal consists of minute silica spheres that develop as silica-rich water permeates deep fissures and empty spaces within the Earth’s crust.
Opal is categorised into two main groups- common opal and precious opal. Opal can be found in various corners of the globe, spanning regions from Canada to Cornwall, Australia to Siberia, as well as locations like Ethiopia and Madagascar, among others.
What are the different types of opal?
Precious Opal and Common Opal
Precious opal is the most well known type of opal, characterised by its play of colour. This term is referred to as the result of diffraction and interference with light within the microstructure of the stone. Each stone becomes a unique work of art as it exhibits a colour spectrum like no other gemstone.
Common opal typically possesses an opacity that ranges from translucent to opaque, often producing a brownish-orange hue. Nevertheless, its colouration can span the spectrum and encompass a variety of attractive shades.
Fire Opal
Fire opal is recognised for its fiery, warm hues including shades of orange, yellow and red. It doesn’t quite have the same spectrum of colour as precious opals, instead its allure lies in its vibrant and intense colouration.
Black Opal
Considered one of the most sought after varieties of opal, it features a dark body tone that enhances the play of colour. The combination of deep colours and vibrant flashes creates a captivating contrast, making it a true masterpiece of nature. Black opal predominately comes from Lightening Ridge, Australia but can also be found in Honduras, the USA and Hungary.
Boulder Opal
Boulder opal is formed within ironstone matrix, resulting in a stunning interplay between the opal and the surrounding rock. Boulder opal often displays a mix of earthy tones and vibrant colours creating a wonderful visual spectacle. It was first discovered in Queensland, Australia and can now also be found in Brazil and Canada.
White Opal
This type of opal is recognised by its light body tone and gentle play of colour. It features a white base that exhibits sub-transparency to translucency, often revealing opalescent properties. While its currently deemed less valuable than black opal, superior white opal continues to command impressive prices due to its alluring attributes. The primary sources of white opal are Marla and Whitecliffs in Australia and it is also unearthed in Hungary, Ethiopia and Canada.
Water Opal
This particular type of opal represents the colourless form of precious opal that possesses a gentle visual quality. Typically, the play of colour seems enclosed within the gem against a transparent backdrop. The most exceptional examples of water opal are sourced from Mexico, Australia and the USA.
Doublets, Triplets and Solid Opals: Understanding the differences
Opal doublets: These consist of a thin slice of precious opal attached to a backing material, often a dark stone or black glass. The backing enhances the play of colour and provides durability, making doublets a more affordable option that still showcases the opal’s beauty.
Opal Triplets: These take the concept of doublet further by adding a transparent protective layer on top of the precious opal. The slice of opal is much thinner, with the top layer a domed cabochon usually made of quartz, plastic or glass. This layer protects the opal while it also works as a magnifier for the play of colour.
Solid Opals: Entirely composed of opal material without any additional layers, they are true to their name. They are highly valued for their natural beauty and intense play of colour.
How to care for your opals
Opals are delicate gemstones that require proper care to maintain their beauty and longevity. Below are some essential care tips to ensure your opals remain stunning for years to come.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Opals are sensitive to chemicals, including perfumes, household cleaning products and cosmetics. Remove your opal jewellery before applying these substances to prevent damage to the stone’s surface.
Gentle Cleaning
Clean your opal jewellery with a soft damp cloth to remove dust and dirt. Avoid using harsh cleansers or abrasive materials as they can scratch the surface or dull the play of colour.
Storage
Store your opal jewellery separately from other pieces of jewellery to prevent scratching. Consider using soft pouches or boxes with padded interiors.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Opals are sensitive to temperature changes. Avoid exposing them to rapid shifts in temperature as this can cause cracking or other damage.
Regular Wear
Opals benefit from being worn regularly as the natural oils from your skin can help prevent them from drying out. However, be mindful of potential impacts that can cause chips or cracks.
Conclusion
Opals are truly incredible gemstones with their unique play of colour and alluring characteristics. Each variety offers something special and we hope that we have explained the various options available on the market. Whether you opt for a precious opal, common opal, solid, doublet or triplet, you can be sure to fall in love with the wonder of opals and become fascinated with one of nature’s most beautiful and magical gemstones.
