Gem Index Opal Background

Opal

Gem Index - Opal

"There’s something truly magical about opals… The cosmic play-of-colour is unlike any other gemstone on Earth. I find them completely mesmerising - it feels like I'm holding a tiny galaxy in the palm of my hand."

MOIRA PATIENCE

gem index opal

What is an Opal?

Opal is a gorgeous semi-precious gemstone that has captivated people for centuries with its unique beauty.


Opal is renowned for displaying an unparalleled vivid play-of-colour; an optical phenomenon that makes the gem flash and sparkle with all the colous of the rainbow.

Hydrated Silica

Mineral

5 - 6.5

Hardness (out of 10)

October

Birthstone

8th

Anniversary

Moira Patience bespoke Australian opal ring

Where are Opals Found?

Australia is the primary source of opals, with the famous Lightning Ridge and Coober Pedy mines producing some of the most valuable and sought-after opals in the world. Other sources include Mexico, Brazil, and Ethiopia.


When opal formed, silica gel filled crevices in rock. As water evaporates, the silica is deposited in the form of tiny spheres.

opal and diamond engagement ring

Hardness

With a hardness rating of 5 - 6.5, Opal is a relatively soft gem and must be handled with care. We usually use a bezel setting to help protect the stone from knocks and scratches.


It’s also best to clean opal with a soft, damp cloth and avoid exposure to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures.

opal and spinel floral petal style engagement ring

Myths & Legends

In ancient times, opal was believed to possess mystical powers and bring protection to those who wore it.


The Romans thought it was the most precious and powerful of all gemstones and the Bedouins believed that opals contained lightning and fell from the sky during thunderstorms.

black opal bangle

Colour

Opal’s can display all the colours of the rainbow. There are several types of opal, including white, black, and fire opal. Each has its own unique characteristics and colour patterns, but black opals are considered to be the rarest.


The play-of-color in opal is caused by the diffraction of light as it passes through the silica spheres within the stone.

opal and diamond engagement ring

How was Opal Formed?

Opal is the product of seasonal rains that drenched dry ground in semi-desert regions such as the Australian Outbacks. The silica rich water soaked deep into ancient underground rock.


During dry periods, much of the water evaporated, leaving solid deposits of silica in the cracks and between the layers of underground sedimentary rock. The silica deposits formed opal.

Any questions about Opals?

Moira's Bespoke Opal Jewellery Commissions

Black Opal Bracelet
Black Opal Bracelet

Black Opal Bracelet

My client found the torque shape of the original bangle wasn’t working. So, we carefully removed the stunning and very rare black opal from the setting...

Australian Opal Cocktail Ring
Australian Opal Cocktail Ring

Australian Opal Cocktail Ring

A perfectly symmetrical, large and oval Australian opal - very rare and with the most beautiful rainbow of colour! Not much design is needed with a gem like this...

Opal & Spinel Cocktail Ring
Opal & Spinel Cocktail Ring

Opal & Spinel Cocktail Ring

I am thrilled to show you this stunner of a ring created with a client's heirloom opal (look at that colour!) set in a floral inspired, 18ct yellow gold setting with red spinel pave in the petals...

Australian Opal & Diamond Pavé Engagement Ring
Australian Opal & Diamond Pavé Engagement Ring

Australian Opal & Diamond Pavé Engagement Ring

Originally from Australia, the couple are spending a few years in Scotland and we managed to source this magical Australian opal for their engagement ring...

Australian Opal & Diamond Engagement Ring
Australian Opal & Diamond Engagement Ring

Australian Opal & Diamond Engagement Ring

I am thrilled to show you this stunner of a ring created with a client's heirloom opal (look at that colour!) set in a floral inspired, 18ct yellow gold setting with red spinel pave in the petals...

Celtic Style Opal Ring
Celtic Style Opal Ring

Celtic Style Opal Ring

Originally from Australia, the couple are spending a few years in Scotland and we managed to source this magical Australian opal for their engagement ring...


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craftsmanship ruby and diamond ring in the workshop in Scotland

Craftsmanship

Moira Patience gemstones in the workshop

Responsible Jewellery