Opal Doublets vs Synthetic Opals vs Australian Opals – How to Identify?

Opal doublets and synthetic opals are two of the most commonly available types of opals in the market.Unfortunately, many people often get cheated when buying these types of opals due to their low prices and deceptive appearances. It is important to be aware of the differences between these two types of opals so that you can make an informed decision when purchasing them.

Opal doublets are made up of a thin layer of natural opal glued on top of a black backing material, while synthetic opals are man-made imitations with no natural components. Both types have their own unique characteristics, but it can be difficult to tell them apart without proper knowledge and experience. Therefore, it is important to be cautious when buying either type and always check for authenticity before making a purchase.

Australian Opal

Australia is known for producing some of the world’s most beautiful opals, which are a popular gemstone used in jewelry. Opals are known for their unique play of color, which results from the diffraction of light as it passes through the gemstone. While opals can be found in many countries, Australian opals are widely considered to be the best.

There are several types of Australian opals available in the market. Some of the most common types include:

Black Opals: Black opals are the most valuable and sought-after type of Australian opal. They are characterized by their dark body tone and bright play of color. Black opals are mined in Lightning Ridge, New South Wales, and are known for their intense colors and unique patterns.

White Opals: White opals are characterized by their white or light body tone with flashes of color. They are mined in various locations throughout Australia, including South Australia and New South Wales.

Boulder Opals: Boulder opals are found in the western Queensland region of Australia. They are characterized by their unique patterns, which are created by the opal formed within the crevices of ironstone boulders.

Crystal Opals: Crystal opals are known for their transparency, which allows the play of color to shine through. They are mined in various locations throughout Australia, including Coober Pedy in South Australia.

Australian opals are highly valued for their beauty and rarity, and as a result, they can be quite expensive.

The price of an opal depends on a variety of factors, including its type, size, and quality of the play of color. Opals with a strong play of color are typically more valuable than those with a weaker play of color. When purchasing an opal, it is important to be aware of the various factors that can affect its value. These include:

Color: The more vibrant and intense the play of color, the more valuable the opal.

Clarity: Opals with fewer inclusions and blemishes are typically more valuable.

Cut: A well-cut opal will enhance its play of color and make it more valuable.

Size: Larger opals are generally more valuable than smaller ones.

When shopping for an opal, it is important to buy from a reputable dealer who can provide you with a certificate of authenticity. This will ensure that you are purchasing a genuine Australian opal and not a synthetic or imitation stone.

In conclusion, Australian opals are a beautiful and rare gemstone that are highly valued in the jewelry industry. With their unique play of color and variety of types, Australian opals offer something for everyone. When shopping for an opal, it is important to consider the various factors that can affect its value and to buy from a reputable dealer to ensure that you are getting a genuine stone.