A Guide to Opal Jewelry
Shimmering in shades ranging from subtle white to vibrant rainbow hues, opal is one of the world's most captivating gemstones. Beyond being the official birthstone of October, opal is a prominent choice in fine jewelry. From understated earrings to stunning statement necklaces, opal jewelry comes in many forms.
At Lux Bond & Green, we’re proud to carry a curated selection of fine opal jewelry for everyday wear, special occasions, and more. Let’s explore why opal jewelry is so beloved and why it stands out for new and seasoned collectors alike.
What is an opal?
An aesthetic and geological marvel, opal is composed of hydrated silica. Derived from the Sanskrit word upala, meaning precious stone, these eclectic gemstones form in locations worldwide, including Ethiopia, Mexico, and Brazil. Yet Australia is the most famous source of opals, best known for one-of-a-kind black opals that form in New South Wales.
The allure of opal jewelry comes from its diverse color options, produced by minuscule silica spheres that reflect and diffract different rays of light.
White opal jewelry
White opals are pale and possess a magnificent, magnetic appearance. Though these opals have a pale base, they often demonstrate gentle, prismatic shimmers of color.
Black opal jewelry
The darker base of black opals makes the kaleidoscopic colors this gemstone displays incredibly striking, creating an incredible contrast. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) categorizes black opal as the rarest form of the stone.
Fire opal jewelry
While not every fire opal offers the same play-of-color as other varieties, its shade is nonetheless unique, with a red, yellow, or orange base.
Crystal opal jewelry
Crystal opals have a near-translucent body, making them a go-to option for collectors who want to capture the gemstone’s ability to shed multicolored rays of light.
Boulder opal jewelry
Boulder opals form within natural host rock, often ironstone, and are cut with portions of the rock still attached, creating a distinctive contrast between the opal's vibrant colors and its earthy surroundings.
At Lux Bond & Green, our opal jewelry collection reflects this semi-precious stone's eclectic composition. From earrings to necklaces to rings, bracelets, and more, our pieces capture this gemstone’s remarkable range of color.
Opal’s symbolic meanings
As the celebrated birthstone of October, opal is associated with purity, hope, and truth. This is one reason opal jewelry is also a common choice for an anniversary gift, typically given to mark a couple’s fourteenth year of marriage.
It is a misconception that opal is associated with bad luck, despite its historically positive symbolism. The GIA traces this superstition to Anne of Geierstein, a 1829 novel by Scottish author Sir Walter Scott. In fact, people have associated this gem with optimism since ancient times, and the Romans recognized it as the stone of love and hope. This spirit lives on today, with opal remaining a gem of great reverence.
Popular types of opal jewelry
You can wear opal jewelry in many ways, and the best choice depends on your style and preferences.
Opal rings
Opal rings undoubtedly catch the eye, making them an exceptional choice for a solitaire or halo-set stone.
As a softer gemstone with a Mohs hardness of 5-6.5, opal can scratch and chip, so setting protection is key when choosing an opal ring you can cherish for many years to come.
Opal earrings
Because of this gemstone’s potential for wear and tear, opal earrings are one of the most practical options if you’re looking for a low-maintenance piece. Whether you prefer a staple pair of studs or decadent drop earrings, this option is reliable and undeniably stylish.
Opal pendants and necklaces
Much like earrings, opal pendants and opal necklaces are less prone to abrasion. Depending on the style and color profile you select, an opal necklace can be a perfect go-to accessory or something you can save for special occasions.
Metal and accent stones
Collectors often seek opal jewelry with gold settings or accent stones that complement the gem’s diverse colors. Gold helps the central stone glitter; pink tourmaline, citrine, moonstone, and amethyst are exceptional companions to opal’s many hues.
How to Care for Opal Jewelry
Opal jewelry requires a little extra care to preserve its natural beauty. Because opals are softer than many other gemstones, they can be susceptible to scratches and chips. To keep your opal jewelry looking its best, gently clean it with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth, avoiding harsh chemicals and ultrasonic or steam cleaners. It's also important to protect opals from extreme heat, sudden temperature changes, and hard impacts. When not in use, store your opal jewelry separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches and preserve its brilliance for years to come.
Explore opal jewelry at Lux Bond & Green
Opal is not just for birthstone jewelry or an expressive anniversary gift; it is also a beloved choice among collectors across the globe.
Whether you're gifting to someone special or adding to your personal collection, Lux Bond & Green offers an extensive variety of opal jewelry. Our selection of opal jewelry features pieces suited to every taste. With over 125 years of curating fine jewelry, our expert, non-commissioned staff provides personalized guidance to help you make an informed investment and discover a treasure that reflects your style, purpose, and aesthetic.
Visit Lux Bond & Green in Connecticut or Massachusetts and experience the brilliance of opal jewelry.