Classic Opal Jewellery: Buying Guide For Authentic Choices

Opals are well known for their dazzlingly beautiful array of colours and aesthetic appeal; they are one of the most captivating precious stones/gemstones all over the world. They are sometimes referred to as ‘nature’s fireworks’ because of the play of light on them and their iridescence. 

People have always cherished classic opal jewelleries from centuries past and the timeless allure of these gemstones have continued to hold many a fashion enthusiast and collector captive. However, when shopping for opal jewellery, it is very important to have pertinent information and knowledge about this precious stone. This knowledge is important especially if you want to get high quality and authentic pieces. 

In this article, therefore, we will share information on the different types of opals and the different factors that determine their price/value.  Additionally, we will explore with you, the primary and important factors to consider when shopping for opal jewellery so that you are better equipped to make informed decisions. 

Understanding What Makes Opals Special 

Like we mentioned earlier, opals are known for their play of colour and this refers to the shifting ‘colours’ produced by the optical effects of light on the thin surface of the mineral when looked at from different angles. Unlike a lot of other gemstones that have uniform colors these precious stones have an ever-changing hue that showcases a stunning combination of reds, blues, green, purples and yellows. 

The value of this stone is mostly dependent on how intense these colours are and their patterns. The more evocative and true to life these colors are and the pattern diverse, the more value is attached to the opal. Other factors that also influence the value of this mineral and its end products include the following:

1. Type 
2. Cut
3. Craftsmanship 

Types of Opals

Before you buy any opal jewellery, it is very important to know the different types available and their distinct features:-

1. Black– These are the most sought after and valuable varieties and they are mostly mined in Australia (Lightning Ridge). They have a dark body hue and this intensifies the paly of colour on their surface. Black opals are and stunning thanks to the juxtaposition of the dark background and the vivid colours. 
2. White – They are also known as light opal because of their white or milky base color. Although they may not show off the intensity of color play as No.1, the premium quality of these varieties can still give off flashes of different hues of greens and blues.  They are usually less expensive than their black counterparts. 
3. Boulder - These are unique varieties that are usually found attached to rocks. They usually display streaks of opal in the middle of natural rock and this gives then an earthy and rugged appeal. These varieties are loved for the natural beauty derived from their host rocks and vibrant colors. Visit this site: https://www.geologyin.com/ for more details. 
4. Crystal – These have transparent or translucent bodies that allow light to pass through. This feature enables the paly of colour to look more vivid and 3-D like. They come in a variety of hues ranging from light to dark.  People love them because of this lucidity and vibrancy of color. 
5. Fire – Unlike the other types of this precious stone, this variety is known for the intensity of orange, yellow and red colours instead of the play of color. 

Tips for Identifying Authentic Opal Jewellery

Buying authentic opal jewellery is what makes owning this gemstone worthwhile. Sadly, the market is saturated with fakes and imitations which truly look quite appealing but do not have the uniqueness that comes with authentic opal.  

In order therefore to help you make the right choice and get authentic pieces, find below very important tips:-

1. Ask for Documentation-Reputable dealers in this mineral will always have certificate of authenticity for their pieces. In addition some may also have proof of appraisal from a renowned/reputable gemologist. Either of these can stand as proof of authenticity. The document should have the following information:-origin, type, quality and size. 
2. Look Out for Synthetic Opals – These varieties are the man-made ones that are produced in laboratories. They often mimic the real thing but you can distinguish them by the uniformity and simplicity of the play of colours compared to the natural variety. The synthetic varieties are also sold at much more cheaper prices therefore, so if the price of a piece appears to be too good to be true, then it might just be synthetic. 
3. Look out for Doublets and Triplets- Doublets are layered opals produced by sticking a thin slice of authentic opal onto a backing material while triplets usually have a backing and a transparent top layer. Although these varieties are produced with authentic opal, they are not deemed as valuable as pieces made with only opals. Therefore when shopping for your opal pieces, ensure that they are solid through and through and not doublets or triplets 

(Unless that’s what you want).

You can click here for more tips. 

Conclusion

When shopping for classic opal jewellery, bear in mind that you are paying for both the beauty of the gemstone and the craftsmanship. These gemstones are no doubt dazzling and mesmerizing with their play of colours and one-of-a-kind patterns; however, if you truly want to get authentic pieces, you must take out type to study these stones so that you can make informed choices.