Precious opal gemstone is one of the most popular gemstones in the world. This stone has a unique color pattern and is valued for its beauty and rarity. The stone is formed of a silicon dioxide mineral with tiny water droplets trapped within its structure creating rainbow-like color reflections when light passes through it. Agates and precious opal gemstones vary in color and iridescent effects, making them a desirable choice for jewelry.
The price of a precious opal gemstone can vary significantly based on its size, quality, and intensity of the effect. Quality opals are often classified by their brilliance or their “play,” which refers to the varying color patterns and iridescence of the stone. Top grade stones will have a very striking pattern of kaleidoscopic colors that range from a bright yellow to blazing red, then to vivid blue and green. Stones with a more dull effect will cost less, but still contain some of the same iridescence and color tones.
Precious opals come in a range of colors. The most common are white opals that have a milky or cloudy body color with flashes of color. These opals often have orange, yellow, or pink flashes. Fire opals contain a varied spectrum of colors, ranging from orange, yellow, and even green, and display a clear background. One of the most exclusive opals is the black opal, which has a dark background with flashes of yellow, blue, red, and even green.
Opals are the birthstone for October and used to be presented as a gift for those celebrating the 14th year of marriage. This gemstone is also believed to bring good luck, increase power of expression, and promote a life of creativity.
No matter the color, size, or play of a precious opal gemstone, it will always be both a valuable and beautiful addition to any collection of gems.
Precious Opal Gemstone Value, Price, and Colours
Opal is one of the most sought after gems in the world. The opaque/translucent stone is admired for its distinct colour play and varied hues.
The opal gemstone is part of the hydrous silicon dioxide family. It varies in size, ranging from small pebbles to vast boulders. Depending on the conditions under which it has formed, opal can have different fire, or colour reflection.
What Affects the Value of an Opal?
There are three main factors affecting the market value of an opal stone: size, type, and colour.
- Size: Generally, larger opals are more valuable than smaller stones as they are considered more rare.
- Type: Opals can be transparent, white, boulder, black or crystal. Each type exhibits its own unique play of colour, with some stones showing significant variations.
- Colour: The most valuable opal will have strong flashes of vibrant colours.
What is the Price of a Precious Opal?
The price of a precious opal will depend on the size and quality of the gemstone. A small white opal can cost a few dollars, while a large black opal can be worth several thousand. In the case of crystal opal, the cost can be even higher.
What Colour Variations Exist in Precious Opal?
The most popular colour of precious opals are yellow, pink, green, blue and purple. Contrasted with the common white or black, these gems exhibit an eye-catching play of colour when light is shined upon them. Other rarer colours can also be found such as reddish-orange, orange-yellow and even blue-green.
Every opal is unique and will possess its own distinct colours and qualities. By taking all these factors into account, you can determine the value and price of a precious opal.
