Caring for your Opal
Australian Opals are not only prized for their gem quality, but their stability in comparison to other forms of precious opal world wide.
The Australian Opal is well known for its stability and lesser water content, meaning it is more durable and better for use in jewelry and investment.
However, an Opal is still a hydrated gemstone and requires some basic attention when it comes to care and maintenance. Don’t be scared, the Opal is a beautiful, lasting gem, there is just a few things you want to consider:
Opals are totally fine for daily wear! But do not forget they are a relatively soft stone and will not react favorably to being dropped or knocked on hard surfaces...(fair enough, right?). If your going to do some work, take that ring off. Simple! Be careful of extreme temperature changes, and be conscious of the contents of perfumes, hairsprays and cosmetics; it is generally recommended that you put Opal jewellery on afterwards. This goes for all Opal types.
SOLID OPALS.
Solid Opals are completely natural and without any laminate layers that may be subject to separation, meaning they can easily take on water without problem. Opals in fact, benefit quite well from water, and even the oils in our skin! Playing with your Opal does in fact help maintain it’s moisture.
DOUBLET AND TRIPLET OPALS.
Doublet and Triplet Opals, are cabochons made of composite layers. Doublets as the named suggest are made of one part backing (Black potch, ironstone or other) and one part Opal with a layer of glue in between. Triplets are much the same but with a cap on top of the Opal. The backing is used to enhance the colour of otherwise weak Opal material, but the layer of glue may “bubble” or separate if soaked for too long.
If you have a doublet or triplet opal you are best to avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, anything that cause the opal to be soaked and heated.
CLEANING YOUR OPAL.
Be gentle and simple when cleaning your Opal, a soft microfiber cloth or gem cloth will suffice. If needed, use warm water and a mild soap.
Always use a soft cloth.
It is not generally recommended to use ultrasonic cleaners for Opal.
It is not recommended to use harsh chemicals or abrasive jewellery cleaners.
STORING YOUR OPAL.
It is fine to wear your opal every day, but if you store them away, make sure it is in a place of ordinary temperature and no prolonged heat or sun light without movement.
AUSTRALIAN OPALS FROM COOBER PEDY.
Coober Pedy Opals have survived underground for millions of years and remarkably durable when treated with reasonable care. With good, conscious handling your Opal can be enjoyed for generations and become a treasured heirloom.
Every Opal is unique, treat it with care and it reward you with a life time of colour!
Luigi Opal - Coober Pedy, South Australia, Opal capital of the world.
0490 363 422 // luigiopals@gmail.com // luigiopal.com // instagram: luigi.opal // tiktok: luigi.opal