FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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What is the most important thing about buying an Opal?
Personal Preference: Each and every Opal is unique, therefore it is up to individual taste. Even though Red is the rarest and most valuable colour, it may not suite everyone’s personal taste.
- Where do the Opals you sell come from?
Australia produces over 96% of the world’s Opal, so all of our Opals are sourced from mines in South Australia, New South Wales and Queensland. The majority of our Opals are mined or cut by us - Can I get my Opal wet?
When Triplets were first produced, over 50 years ago, the resin used to glue the layers was not waterproof. The current joining treatment involves an extremely strong-bonding resin set using UV heat, similar to a filling at the dentist, so they should last a lifetime. Solid Opals are not effected by water - Are Opals fragile?
With normal wear, an Opal should last a lifetime. As with most gemstones, in extreme circumstances they can be damaged, such as subject to extreme heat of cold, or a heavy blow. On the Mohs scale, Opal hardness is around 6.5-7. - How do I tell if my Opal is solid?
The Opal Industry in Australia is very reputable, and should give you a full description of your Opal. Also, if you can see the side of the stone, a Triplet or Doublet will have a definite straight line where the layers have been glued. - How do I care for my Opal
Opals do not require any special treatment or care. The stories that Opal needs to be kept in a humid environment, kept out of direct sunlight or need to be treated with baby oil are not true. - Where did the Opal myths come from?
Around 130 years ago, when Australian Opal was first sold at Auction House in New York and London, Diamond Merchants were concerned that the popularity of Opal would damage their market, so they made up blatant lies about Opal. For the record, Opal is a gemstone of very good fortune, can be worn while doing the dishes and can be work in any climate.