The Ultimate Opal Buying Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Purchasing

Opal is one of the most mesmerizing gemstones, known for its unique play-of-color and stunning beauty. Whether you’re an investor, a jewelry enthusiast, or someone looking to buy their first opal, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. With so many variations in type, quality, and price, understanding the key factors can help you make an informed decision.

In this comprehensive opal buying guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know before making a purchase, from the types of opals to factors that affect their value, how to care for them, and where to buy authentic stones.

Understanding Opals: What Makes Them Unique?

Opals are formed from silica deposits and they create a stunning iridescent effect which is also known as “play-of-color.” This play-of-color of Opal stone the shifting rainbow-like effect is what makes it so special among others. However, there are many varieties of opals. Not all opals display this characteristic, and their value depends on several factors like color, clarity, type and origin. We’ll step by step approach all the different factors that one should keep in mind before or while buying opal.

Types of Opals: Which One is Right for You?

Before buying an opal, it’s essential to understand the different types available on the market. It is important for you to know about all the possible options so that you can decide better. Here are the most popular varieties:

A. Precious Opal (Play-of-Color Opals)

These are considered as the most precious and valuable opals because of their dazzling play of color.

• Black Opal: The rarest and most expensive opal, found mainly in Lightning Ridge, Australia. The dark body tone enhances the vibrant colors.

• White Opal: It has a lighter background with softer play-of-color. It is found in South Australia.

• Crystal Opal: It is a transparent to semi-transparent opal with a striking color display.

• Boulder Opal: Boulder opal is naturally attached to its ironstone host rock which makes it very durable as compared to others. It is found in Queensland, Australia.

• Fire Opal: Usually found in Mexico, this opal has a bright orange, yellow, or red body tone. Some display play-of-color, while others don’t.

B. Common Opal (Non-Play-of-Color Opals)

These opals do not exhibit play-of-color but are still valued for their beautiful pastel shades.

• Milk Opal: Has a milky-white appearance with a smooth finish.

• Pink Opal: Found in Peru, this stone has a soft pink color and a calming effect.

• Blue Opal: Found in Oregon and Peru, these opals have a tranquil blue tone.

Choosing the right opal depends on your preference for play-of-color, rarity, and budget.

The 4Cs of Opal: What Determines Its Value?

Just like diamonds or any other gemstone, opals are graded based on four key factors—color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. These 4 C’s are essential for any buyer to know before making their purchase. Let’s have a deeper look.

A. Color

Color plays a very important role in determining opal values. Here’s what you should look for in opal’s case:

• Play-of-Color: The more vibrant and varied the colors, the higher the value. Play of color is one of the main characteristics of opal. The better the color, the more valuable your opal is. Try not to compromise on the play of color just because of the price.
• Background Color: The base color of the background color on which the stone displays the play of color plays an important role. Usually black opals are valued the most, followed by white and then crystal opals. These are the three colors that you must go for.
• Brightness: The intensity of the colors determines the opal’s appeal. Bright opals fetch higher prices. A dull piece means that the play of color will be low too and that is not something that you would want.

B. Clarity

Generally opal doesn't come with inclusions. However, since there are many different varieties of opal some types might come with inclusions such as cracks, sand or webbing. These inclusions can lower your opals value. Thoroughly check your opal for any possible inclusion before making the purchase. In terms of clarity, transparent to translucent opals are more preferred.

C. Cut

The cut of an opal plays an important role in deciding its price. Usually the round and oval cuts are most valuable and preferred. However, cuts are more of a personal preference and one should purchase what aligns with their demands.

• Cabochon Cut: Most opals are cut into smooth domes to enhance their play-of-color.
• Freeform Cut: Some opals are cut based on their natural shape to preserve maximum color.
• Faceted Cut: Rare but can add extra brilliance.

D. Carat Weight

Opals are measured in carats, but size isn’t as important as color and clarity. Large opals with vivid color are rare and expensive. A rich play of color is what adds life to an opal. If you are getting your hands on an opal that has a good carat weight and showcases a beautiful play of color then you have hit a jackpot. However, your first priority while buying an opal should be to focus on the play of color rather than just the carat size.

How to identify a quality opal?

Now that you have learned about the 4 c’s of opal you have a basic idea of what to look for. Let us see what points you have to focus on to pick the best of the pieces. A high quality opal will exhibit the following characteristics:

• It will have a bright and consistent play of color from multiple angles.
• It will not have any dead spots (areas with no color).
• It will come with a smooth and even surface that is free from cracks or crazing.
• It will have a good dome shape if it’s a cabochon cut.
• There will be no visible layers if it claims to be a solid opal.

Synthetic vs. Natural Opal: How to Spot the Difference

Before diving in let’s know a little about synthetic opals. Synthetic opals are man-made lab grown opals that are created to mimic the properties and appearance of a natural opal. It is known to have the same chemical composition but the formation process is accelerated in controlled conditions. There are two types of lab-created opals:

• Synthetic Precious Opals: They display a play-of-color that is similar to natural precious opal.
• Imitation Opal: It is made from resin or plastics and they only mimic the appearance but without the true internal structure.

Now, let’s see some points that will help us differentiate synthetic opals from natural opals.

What is a Fair Price for Different Opal Types?

Opal prices can vary drastically depending upon the color, intensity, size and origin. We will however provide you with an estimated price range that you can expect your desired opal variety to fall into.

Where to Buy Opals: Trusted Sources and Red Flags

A. Trusted Sources

• Reputable Jewelers: Established jewelry stores often provide certified opals.
• Opal Mines: Buying directly from sources like Australia’s Lightning Ridge or Mexico’s fire opal mines ensures authenticity.
• Certified Online Retailers: Look for stores that provide gemstone certifications and have good customer reviews. GemstonesforSale has been in business for 12+ years now and we can assure you that you will end up with the best quality opal if you give us a chance.

B. Red Flags to Watch Out For

• Unrealistically Low Prices: If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
• Lack of Certification: Always ask for authenticity certificates.
• Opaque Opals Marketed as Premium: If an opal lacks play-of-color, it should not be sold as a precious opal.

How to Buy Opal Safely Online?

In this world full of scammers, its hard to out your faith in someone especially when money is involved. Allow us to help you in making sure that you make the right purchase online. There are just a few key points that you can keep in mind to buy opals safely online.

• Check seller credentials: If you land up on the sellers page make sure to read their history, years in business, reviews and return policy.
• Ask for certification: All the reputable sellers will provide you with an option to get the certification of your gemstone too. This helps you in making sure that your purchase is authentic.
• Request multiple photos/videos: You can ask for a picture of your purchase in natural and artificial lightning to have proof of your purchase.
• Read fine print: Read the fine print on treatments, origin and stone type.
• Use secure payment methods: Use payment platforms like PayPal or credit card.

How to Care for Your Opal

Opals require special care to maintain their beauty. Here are some tips that can help you maintain its beauty:

• Avoid Water Exposure: Some opals, like Ethiopian opals, can absorb water and become cloudy.
• Keep Away from Heat: Opals are sensitive to extreme temperatures.
• Store Separately: Use a soft pouch to prevent scratches.
• Clean Gently: Use a soft cloth and mild soapy water; never use ultrasonic cleaners.

Opal Myths vs. Facts: Clearing Up Misconceptions

Myth 1: Opals Bring Bad Luck

Fact: This superstition originated from a novel and has no basis in reality. Opals are symbols of hope and creativity.

Myth 2: Opals are Fragile and Useless for Jewelry

Fact: While softer than diamonds, opals are durable when set in protective settings like bezel rings or pendants.

Myth 3: All Opals Look the Same

Fact: Each opal is unique in color and pattern, making them one-of-a-kind gemstones.

Conclusion: Is Opal the Right Gemstone for You?

If you’re drawn to the mesmerizing beauty of opals, investing in one can be a rewarding experience. Whether you’re buying for aesthetic appeal, spiritual benefits, or investment purposes, understanding opal types, grading factors, and care tips ensures you make an informed purchase.

Opals offer a magical display of colors and are treasured for their individuality. By following this guide, you can confidently select the perfect opal that suits your taste and budget.