Understanding Opals

Opals, despite being a prominent gemstone for centuries, is often overlooked by jewellers who don’t necessarily understand the intricacies about the gemstone. The reason this is so important to see is that, without proper knowledge, customers may buy an opal under false pretenses, thinking that their purchase is a solid opal, when it is actually a triplet or synthetic piece. This overall aids in the mistrust between customers and wholesalers, which is something that can not easily be repaired. 

Why Is It Important For Jewellers To Understand The Differences Within Opals?

That is because opals, due to their intricate creation, are unlike any other gemstone. Many of the main misconceptions regarding opals can stem from a misunderstanding of this simple fact, and by treating opal like the ‘other gemstones’. Jewellers can potentially create irreparable damage to not only their jewellery, but to the relationship and trust built with their client. 

Every Opal Is Unique And Cannot Be Replaced

This is a fact often overlooked by many, and can contribute to why public opinion can be skewed, as each opal is different, and therefore must be treated as such. 

Another main issue that stems from the issue is triplets, or rather, the misconceptions placed around this form of opal. Although a triplet is only a thin slice of opal; they can often be mistaken for solid pieces, and therefore lead someone down a path of misled ‘authenticity’.

There have been many cases where misinformed jewellers will look at a triplet that has a low price, and equate that to the solid opal that it looks like, leading to an overall skewed knowledge on the real price and value of opals.

This mistake also comes from a misunderstanding of an opal’s unique nature as a whole; often people will look towards a gemstone such as diamond, with similar prices based upon cut and clarity, and equate that system to opals. This is a highly unreasonable way of thinking because, as stated before, the very formation of opals does not allow for unity within their colours or patterns. There will never be two opals that are the same, only two gemstones with vague similarities. 

What Can You Do To Stay More Informed About Your Jewellery?

With the interest in opals steadily increasing, it is important that you inform yourself on the types of opals, and their rarity. Familiarising yourself with the specific characteristics of opal can be beneficial long term, not just in the aspect of deals, but in regard to personal taste and opinion as well.

The easiest way to achieve this knowledge is to go directly to shops that specialise in the gemstone. Some places can even give free consultations, and will explain the different types of opals, and their benefits. This can be incredibly beneficial, as you are receiving information from people who are often in direct contact with miners, and have years of experience dealing specifically with the rainbow gem.