About Opals

What is an Opal?

Opals are among the world's most mesmerising natural treasures, renowned for their stunning array of colours and captivating play of light. As Australia's National Stone, opals hold a special place in both Australian culture and the global jewellery market.

Formed over 80 million years ago, opals are as ancient as the dinosaurs. They originated when large parts of Australia were covered by an inland sea, leaving behind silica-rich deposits that eventually transformed into opals. Today, Australia is the world's leading producer of opals, known for their exceptional quality and beauty.

The word opal comes from the Latin term opalus, meaning “change in colour.” This name perfectly describes the remarkable, shifting hues that make opals so unique. Historically, opals were prized by the Romans over 2,000 years ago, with early examples coming from Slovakia. However, Australian opals—ranging from dazzling black opals to brilliant white and boulder opals—are now regarded as the finest in the world.

What Makes Opals Unique?

Opals are natural stones, composed of non-crystallised silica minerals combined with water. They stand apart from synthetic alternatives made in factories, as they require millions of years to form under perfect natural conditions. Their vibrant colours and patterns make every opal one of a kind—no two stones are ever exactly alike.

How Are Opals Formed?

Opals are formed when a solution of silica and water seeps into cracks and voids in the Earth’s crust, often created by faults or decomposed fossils. Over time, as the water evaporates, silica deposits remain and accumulate. This process, repeated over millions of years, eventually creates the opals we cherish today.

Opal Patterns and Varieties

Each opal’s pattern contributes to its individuality, beauty, and value. Here are some common patterns found in Australian opals:

• Black Opal: Known for its vibrant and broad patterns such as harlequin, ribbon, and straw, which are rare and highly sought after.
• Boulder Opal: Often called “picture stones” because they resemble landscapes or natural scenes.
• White Opal: Typically displays smaller, subtler patterns like floral and pinfire.

The variety of patterns ensures that every opal tells its own story.

How Are Opals Mined?

The mining process differs depending on the type of opal:

• Black Opals: Mined primarily in Lightning Ridge, black opals are extracted through a system of shafts and tunnels. After reaching the clay level, miners carefully dig horizontal tunnels to locate opals. The excavated material is brought to the surface, washed, and sorted to reveal the precious stones.
• Boulder Opals: Found in Queensland, boulder opals are mined through open-cut methods using heavy machinery. Once extracted, large boulders containing opal veins are carefully examined and cut with diamond saws to reveal their treasures.

Each opal undergoes a meticulous cutting and polishing process to enhance its natural beauty.

Why Choose Solid Opals?

When purchasing opals, it’s essential to understand the difference between solid opals, doublets, and triplets:

• Solid Opals: These are 100% natural, long-lasting, and considered the highest quality.
• Doublets and Triplets: Made by layering a thin slice of opal onto a black backing (doublets) or sandwiching it under a clear dome (triplets). While more affordable, these composites can be damaged by prolonged exposure to water and are less durable than solid opals.

At Ikecho, we proudly offer only solid opals, ensuring the finest quality for your jewellery collection. Each piece is a genuine, enduring investment.

Shop Opal Jewellery Today

Discover the allure of Australian opals in our stunning jewellery collections. From the vivid play of colour to the unmatched craftsmanship, each piece is a timeless treasure that reflects the natural beauty of our land. Whether you're in Australia or overseas, shop with confidence knowing you’re buying authentic, solid opals from a trusted source.

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