How to Care for Opals

Opals are one of the most enchanting gemstones in the world. Their iridescent colours shift and dance in the light, making each stone feel truly one of a kind. But with their beauty comes a level of delicacy. Unlike harder stones such as diamonds or sapphires, opals require a little more thought when it comes to care and wear.

With the right approach, opals can be worn and enjoyed for years. Whether you already own a piece or are considering adding one to your collection, here’s everything you need to know about keeping your opals looking their best.

Understand the Nature of the Stone

Opals are unique in that they contain a small amount of water within their structure, typically between three and twenty percent. This gives them their luminous appearance but also makes them more sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. Sudden exposure to heat or dry air can cause the stone to expand or contract, which in rare cases can lead to surface cracking known as crazing.

Because of this, opals are best stored in environments where the air isn’t too dry. A soft jewellery pouch in a drawer or box is ideal, and it’s always best to avoid storing them in places with strong direct sunlight or very low humidity.

Wear with Care

Opals are considered a softer gemstone. On the Mohs scale of hardness, they sit between 5.5 and 6.5, which means they can be scratched or chipped if knocked against harder surfaces. For this reason, it’s best to avoid wearing opals during activities that might expose them to impact like gardening, sports, or heavy lifting, for example.

They’re best suited to occasional wear or gentle, everyday use. Rings and bracelets may require more caution, while earrings and pendants tend to offer safer settings for regular wear. If you love your opal ring and want to wear it daily, choose a setting that offers good protection, such as a bezel or flush design that guards the edges of the stone.

Keep Them Clean, Gently

Cleaning opals should always be approached with care. These are not stones that tolerate harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners or high-pressure steam. Instead, the safest method is the simplest - a soft, damp cloth and lukewarm water. Gently wipe the surface of the stone and dry it carefully with a clean, non-abrasive cloth.

Avoid soaking your opals for long periods and never expose them to bleach, ammonia or any type of cleaning solvent. If your opal is doublet or triplet in structure, meaning it has layers of gemstone and backing fused together, you’ll want to avoid submerging it entirely, as moisture can sometimes work its way between the layers over time.

Bring Them in for Maintenance

As with all fine jewellery, it’s a good idea to bring your opal pieces in for a professional check from time to time. Settings can loosen, especially in rings that are worn frequently, and any minor scratches can often be polished out by a skilled jeweller.

At Walter Bull & Son, we’re always happy to inspect, clean and care for opal jewellery, whether it’s a new addition or something that’s been in the family for generations.

Opals are delicate but not difficult. With just a little extra attention, they will retain their brilliance and continue to reflect the light in that way only opals can. These stones have captivated wearers for centuries with their quiet magic, and they remain one of the most rewarding gems to wear.

If you’d like help choosing an opal piece or advice on caring for one you already love, we’re here to help. From repair and cleaning to thoughtful guidance, our team is always happy to look after your jewellery as if it were our own.