Well admired for its beauty and versatility, the opal is a favorite among the team at Bella Cosa Jewelers. The secret to the opal’s allure is its "play-of-color," a phenomenon where the gemstone reflects a spectrum of colors when light hits just right. No two opals are exactly alike, making them perfect for anyone seeking something truly unique. With so many colors to choose from, there's an opal out there for everyone and every piece—it's just about finding the one that's right for you.
Enhancing Opals' Characteristics in Jewelry Design
A gemstone's durability is measured on the MOHS Hardness Scale. Diamonds top the chart at a 10, making them the hardest material on Earth. Opals, on the other hand, are quite a bit softer, ranking around 5 to 6.5. Their delicate nature needs to be considered when designing or choosing opal jewelry, as they should be well-protected in their setting.
Protective Settings: Because opals are more fragile than other gemstones, bezel settings are recommended. The metal frame provides the most protection without detracting from the stone's beauty. Other settings can work if worn on occasion, but if you plan to wear it regularly, it's best to prioritize protecting your opal from the wear and tear of everyday life.
Highlighting Color Play with Size and Shape: Like all gemstones, the size and cut of an opal can greatly influence its appearance. Larger cabochon-cut opals are especially popular for their smooth, rounded surface, which lets light dance across the entire stone, showcasing its full spectrum of colors. They also make stunning centerpieces for rings or pendants!
Pairing with Complementary Metals:
Warm-Toned Metals (Yellow or Rose Gold): Warmer metals are a perfect match for fire opals or opals with similar hues.
Cool-Toned Metals (Platinum, White Gold, or Silver): White metals create a sleek contrast that makes the cooler tones in opals—like blues, purples, and greens—appear even more vivid.
Opals: October’s Birthstone
The month of October represents a change of season, much like how opals capture a sense of transformation and beauty, making them the perfect symbol for fall. Perhaps that's why opals were named October's birthstone. In fact, opals have been worn by people born in October since as early as the 15th century, making them a meaningful gift for any October baby in need of a little extra luck.
A Perfect Anniversary Gift
Opals are traditionally given as a 14th anniversary gift because they symbolize passion and romance. Like any relationship, each opal is one-of-a-kind, and serves as a reminder of a couple’s unique bond. Additionally, opals are believed to protect the wearer, which makes them even more special when given to a loved one.
How to Care for Opals
Due to their unique composition and high water content, opals can be sensitive to environmental factors such as heat, humidity and chemicals. They require mindful care to preserve their beauty and longevity. Here are a few tips for caring for your opal jewelry:
- Avoid Heat and Direct Sunlight: Opals contain water, making them sensitive to extreme heat or sudden temperature changes. Prolonged exposure to heat can cause damage from cracking or dehydration.
- Gentle Cleaning: Opals are not ultrasonic safe, so it's best to use a soft, damp cloth to gently clean your opal jewelry. Avoid using harsh chemicals, soaps, or abrasive materials that can scratch or dull the stone.
- Limit Contact with Chemicals: This is a best practice that applies to all jewelry. Remove opal jewelry when applying lotions, perfumes, or household cleaners. These chemicals can damage the stone, the metal, or clog the setting, increasing the chances of your stone coming loose.
- Proper Storage: Store your opal jewelry in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box away from harder gemstones to avoid scratching.
- Regular Maintenance: At Bella Cosa Jewelers, we offer full jewelry services and recommend scheduling regular check-ups and cleanings to ensure your opal's beauty lasts a lifetime.
Conclusion
Opals are one of the most captivating gemstones. They offer an impressive array of colors and beauty that simply can't be denied. Whether you're drawn to their unique look, their versatility, or their significance, opals are a special gemstone for a special someone.
At Bella Cosa Jewelers, we offer a carefully curated selection of opal jewelry from notable designers including Aurelie Gi and more. From ready-to-wear designs, statement pieces, and our in-house creations, our opal collection is truly special.
Visit us at Bella Cosa Jewelers to explore our gemstone collection and discover your perfect opal.