A Guide to Different Types of Opal and Their Unique Features

This magical gemstone, opal stone, has captured the hearts of jewelry lovers for a very long time.. Its ethereal play of colors described many a time as "fire" within the stone, really does make it special. Though very few of us know that there exist several types of opal stones, each possessing its unique charm and value. 

This blog will give you a close-up look at different types of opal stones and their beautiful features.

Understanding Opal Stone

Prior to delving into the numerous types of opal gemstones, let us first understand what makes opal so unique. It is, therefore, deprived of crystal structure and contains water. Opalescence, the captivating display of colors, is caused by this special property found in silica spheres.

Opal stone price is determined by a number of factors, such as size, color, clarity, and pattern. Premium opal stone with vivid hues and detailed patterns can cost a lot of money. Nonetheless, opal is a versatile gemstone for jewelry enthusiasts, with a stone to suit every budget. 

Other than opal gemstones, Moonstone holds unique features and is also considered as the most preferred stone. 

Types of Opal Stone

1. Precious Opal

The precious opal stone is the most desirable and expensive one. It displays the beautiful iridescence called opalescence. This category of opal stone is further divided into various types according to the pattern that it has:

• Black Opal: As the name suggests, black opal stone has a dark, deep body color. It consists of bright and contrasting colors. It is the rarest and the most expensive kind of opal stone.

• White Opal: Characterized by a milky white base, the white opal stone is for people of great beauty and can be used in various kinds of jewelry making. This is often less expensive compared to black opal but highly valued. 

• Crystal Opal: Transparent or translucent with a colorless to pale-blue body, crystal opal stones often show a strong play of color.

• Fire Opal: This type of opal stone is recognised for its bright orange, red, or yellow color. It may or may not be opaque white.

If you were born in October and are captivated by the opal crystal's beauty and colour play, make sure to read the blog "Opal: The Fiery Gem of October."

2. Common Opal

While not including opalescence, common opal stone still possesses beauty and character. It is often used in sculptures and decorative objects like Amethyst Gemstone.

• Potch Opal: This kind of opal stone is opaque, and there isn't a play of color seen in it. It often is used as the base for other gemstones or in carvings.

• Boulder Opal: This is one of the opals found within the natural boulders of ironstone. Boulder opal contains gemstone inclusions of precious opal within the ironstone matrix. It brings a beautiful and striking appearance.

3. Opal Doublet and Triplet

To enhance the appearance of small or inferior quality opal stone, it is sometimes combined with other materials to make doublets or triplets. Opal stone doublet consists of a thin layer of opal bonded to a backing material that is darker in color. A triplet will have a transparent layer at the top over the opal and backing.

Opal Stone's Unique Features

Opal stone does not only signify its beauty but also carries spiritual values and is believed to be a healing stone. Many people relate it to inspiration, creativity, and hope.

Opal stone is also known for its unique optical properties within it. Apart from opalescence, some opals manifest the chatoyant effect, where light shimmers across a band of light in the stone. It is often referred to as the “harlequin” pattern.

Other few of the unique features of opal stones include:

• Hydration: Opal stone, as stated, is a stone that contains water. This makes it essential to protect it from excessive heat and dryness since it can cause the stone to crack or even lose its lustre.

• Durability: Regarding the durability aspect, opal is rather soft as a gemstone; hence, it is durable if well taken care of. Avoid harsh chemicals and cleaners that are on ultrasonic energy.

• Healing: It is assumed by many people that opal stone possesses metaphysical properties that heighten creativity, instinct, and emotional trauma.

If the opal crystal is drawing you in, you must know about "How to take care of your Opal gemstone?"

Opal Stone: More than Just Beauty

This Opal stone is such a versatile gemstone; it can be used with any kind of jewelry. From dainty pendants to bold rings, there will be an opal piece for every taste. Similar to opal, aquamarine stone is also a popular choice for jewelry making because of its soothing blues.

Opal gems are not just beautiful but also have cultural and historical existence. They are known for their meanings of love, desire, and inspiration. Opals are birthstones for October, but many humans opt to put on opals regardless of their birth month.

Any individual buying an opal gemstone or pearls needs to buy from a credible supplier who provides proof in the form of a certificate of authenticity.  Authentic opal should demonstrate clearly intensive color play, and the appearance should be natural. Always be very careful of synthetic or treated opals, which may not have the same quality or value.

Conclusion

Opal is a natural marvel that draws everyone's heart with its otherworldly beauty. The more that is known about these types of opal stones and their characteristics, the more this wonderful gemstone will be appreciated.

Whether you are drawn to the fiery brilliance of fire opal, the mysterious allure of black opal, or the delicate charm of white opal, bound to be, there is an opal stone whispering its beautiful tale. Bring the magic into your life with opal, and let its colors enchant your life.

So, next time when you see an opal stone, take a moment and contemplate its intricate beauty and the world it represents.

Buy opal gemstones today and experience the magic for yourself!