From Ancient Rome to modern day, many have believed that opals are magical (both literally and figuratively). Opals have long captivated jewelry lovers with their vibrant play of colors, making them a standout and timeless choice.
Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to antique jewelry, opals hold a timeless appeal – but there are certain considerations to keep in mind before adding one of these stunning gems to your collection. Whether you’re looking to understand the deeper symbolic meanings tied to these precious stones or how to properly clean and care for these delicate gems, this guide will walk you through the five most essential facts you need to know about opals...
18K Yellow Gold Australian Black Opal and Old Mine Cut Diamond Ring | Walton's Jewelry
How do opals get their different colors? Which types of opals are most valuable and where are they from?
Opals are renowned for their dazzling "play of color," which can range from fiery reds and oranges to deep blues and greens. This phenomenon is the result of their unique internal structure, where microscopic silica spheres are packed together in a grid-like pattern. When light passes through these spheres, it diffracts, breaking into the prismatic rainbow of colors that opals are famous for.
Not all opals are created equal – some are rarer and more valuable than others, depending on their origin, color intensity, and type. The most valuable opals often come from specific regions that are known for producing the highest-quality gems such as Australia and Ethiopia with darker and more intensely colored opals being prized greater than all others.
Edwardian Opal and Diamond Ring | Walton's Jewelry
What are common traditions associated with opals? What are some of the myths and misconceptions about wearing opals or giving them as a gift?
Opals have been adored for centuries, not only for their beauty but also for the symbolism and traditions they carry. They have long been considered mystical gems, believed to hold deep meanings and, in some cases, even supernatural powers.
For those born in the month of October, the birthstone opal symbolizes hope, purity, and truth. They are also the traditional gift for the 14th wedding anniversary. Whatever the occasion, we find that they make a wonderfully meaningful token of celebration with the gem’s shifting colors seen as a reflection of life’s beauty and changeability.
However, alongside these positive associations, opals have also been at the center of myths and misconceptions, especially when it comes to wearing or gifting them. Thankfully, there’s no truth to the rumors that wearing an opal is bad luck if it's not one’s birthstone.
Victorian Opal Ring | Walton's Jewelry
What historical significance and symbolism has been attributed to opals? What have different cultures believed about wearing opal jewelry?
Opals have been revered for thousands of years, captivating the imaginations of various cultures around the world. Their mesmerizing play of colors, shifting from fiery reds to deep blues and greens, has led to numerous myths, legends, and symbolic associations across different civilizations.
Ancient Roman scholar Pliny the Elder described opals as gems that embodied the beauty of all other precious stones combined—diamond, ruby, emerald, and sapphire—due to their shifting colors; statesmen of the time gifted opals to their wives and favored subjects as a token of goodwill and to promote loyalty.
Opals gained particular popularity in Victorian England, where they became associated with love, passion, and romance. Queen Victoria herself was an admirer of opals, often gifting opal jewelry to her daughters and wearing the gemstone at royal events. Opals were widely used in Victorian jewelry, especially in engagement rings, where they symbolized fidelity and devotion.
Many people now view opals as positive symbols of personal transformation, emotional healing, and protection. Their wide range of colors makes them versatile gems that can symbolize everything from passion and creativity to serenity and purity.
Are opals a good choice for engagement rings? What should you know before buying an opal engagement ring?
Opals are an undeniably unique and romantic choice for engagement rings, offering a magical play of colors that makes each gem one-of-a-kind. No two opals are exactly alike, and that uniqueness is one of the reasons why opals make such a meaningful engagement ring. However, when considering an opal engagement ring, there are a few important factors to keep in mind before committing to this exquisite gemstone.
One of the primary considerations when choosing an opal engagement ring is the gem’s relative softness compared with popular choices suitable for daily wear such as diamonds. This means that opals can be more prone to scratches, chips, and cracks, especially if the wearer works with their hands. For this reason, it’s important to select a setting that offers protection, such as a bezel or halo design, which can help shield your opal from direct impact.
14k White Gold, Opal, and Sapphire Ring | Walton's Jewelry
How should you clean and care for your opal jewelry? Can opal jewelry get wet?
With proper care, opals can maintain their beauty for years to come. However, caring for opal jewelry requires extra attention due to the gemstone’s unique composition and delicate nature. Unlike diamonds or sapphires, opals are softer, more porous, and contain water, making them vulnerable to damage from rough handling, chemicals, and extreme conditions.
There is often confusion as to whether or not opals can get wet; Because opals contain water within their structure, they can be sensitive to drying out or absorbing too much moisture. It’s very important that opal jewelry not be worn when bathing, showering, swimming, etc. though water may be used by a professional jeweler with the expertise and tools to safely clean your pieces while inspecting the stones for cracks and other signs of damage. Steam, harsh chemicals, and ultrasonic cleaners should never be used to care for your opal jewelry.
Proper care extends beyond just cleaning, how you store and wear your opal jewelry also plays a crucial role in preserving its beauty. Avoid extreme heat or cold and store your opal jewelry in a soft, padded box when not wearing. If your opal jewelry has become dull or scratched, or if you notice cracks forming, it’s best to take it to a professional jeweler for cleaning or repair.
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At Walton’s Jewelry, we have more than 50 years of experience serving Historic Downtown Franklin and the greater Nashville community. Each member of our team has trained at The Gemological Institute of America and has a deep passion for preserving the history and beauty of antique jewelry. Whether you are a Tennessee local looking to stop by our showroom, or prefer to view our selection virtually, we invite you to explore our newest arrivals and reach out with any questions you may have.
