The Value Of Opal: What Makes Them Expensive?

The Value Of Opal is determined by several factors. In this article, we’ll explore what makes opal so valuable and how to identify high-quality stones.

Why is Opal Valuable?

Opal is valuable because of its unique play of color caused by light reflection. This creates a variety of changing colors when viewed.

The value of opal depends on its brightness and color patterns. While larger stones are generally more valuable, a smaller opal with exceptional color and brightness can be worth more than a larger one with less vibrant colors. 

Understanding the factors that affect opal value is crucial in determining its cost. The value of opal is influenced not only by its physical characteristics but also by other pricing factors. 

Once you have understood why opal is valuable and are planning to make a purchase, read our post on the Opal Buying Guide to help you on your journey.

Overview of Opal Pricing Factors

The complexity of the geological formations where this precious stone is found contributes to the intricate pricing factors.

1. Rarity: Opal cost is influenced by its rarity, which is determined by the complexity of the geological formations where it is found.

2. Quality: Opals are evaluated based on several quality factors that contribute to their overall worth. These include water content, crystal structure, light body tone and durability.

3. Demand: Opals value can increase due to their cultural significance and popularity in fashion trends. The demand for opals can drive up prices.

The next sections will discuss in more detail each of the Factors mentioned above.

1. Rarity Factors

Here are the factors that affect the rarity of opals. These include Opal Patterns, Clarity & Transparency, Play of Colors, Fluorescence and Carat Weight.

Play of Colors

Opal is renowned for its mesmerizing play of colors, which is its most significant rarity factor. The play of colors refers to the spectral colors that dance and shift within the stone as it interacts with light. Opals displaying vibrant and diverse color patterns, such as intense flashes of red, blue, green, and orange, are rarer and highly sought after.

The more intense the color and the wider the range of colors, the more valuable the opal. Now, let’s take a look at another factor that affects the price of opals – their unique patterns.

Opal Patterns

Opal patterns are a significant factor in determining the worth and aesthetic appeal of the gemstone. Here are some of the most common and rarest patterns found in opals:

1. Broad Flash: This opal pattern is characterized by a bright color that spreads across the surface of the stone. It typically features a dark background color with sections of color that seem to move as the gemstone is rotated.

2. Pinfire: This pattern showcases small, distinct dots of color that are scattered across the surface of the stone. The dots can be arranged in a variety of shapes, such as circles, triangles, or squares.

3. Harlequin: This rarest opal pattern displays a distinctive pattern of squares or rectangles with intense color that cover the surface of the stone. These exceptional stones are highly sought after by collectors for their rarity and beauty.

4. Rolling Flash: This pattern displays a rolling flash of color across the surface of the stone, giving it a mesmerizing effect. The colors can range from bright and vibrant to subtle and subdued.

Opal Clarity and Transparency

Opals with high transparency and clarity are rarer and more valuable. Clear, transparent opals allow the play of colors to shine through more vividly, enhancing their overall beauty. 

However, it’s important to note that opals are known for their opalescence, which often includes natural inclusions and internal structures that contribute to their unique play of colors.

Rare and expensive, faceted opals with minimal inclusions and vibrant color patches are highly valued by buyers. These opals resemble colorful flecks floating in transparent crystal. 

Opal Size and Cut

The size and cut of an opal greatly impact its appearance and beauty. The form of the opal determines how it will be cut and how big it can be.

Solid opals are cut to showcase their unique patterns and colors, while uncut opals are less desirable because they’re harder to work with and may not showcase the opal’s full beauty.

Opal value is influenced by size, cut, and type. A well-cut and polished genuine opal is more valuable than an uncut or poorly cut one. Certain types, like black opals, are rarer and more valuable.

Opal Color Distribution

The distribution and arrangement of colors within an opal also contribute to its rarity. Opals with an even and balanced distribution of colors across the entire stone are considered more desirable. 

The presence of large, distinct color patches or an uneven color distribution reduces the rarity and value of the stone.

Fluorescence in Opals

Opals can emit a fluorescent glow under ultraviolet light due to impurities in the stone. This phenomenon adds to their value and beauty. 

When exposed to UV light, opals absorb energy and release it in a different wavelength, creating a vibrant glow in colors like blue, green, yellow, orange, pink, or red. 

Fluorescence is not only decorative but also a useful guide to identify natural and synthetic opals. It does not affect their durability, but some opals may lose their fluorescence over time due to exposure to sunlight or heat.

Opal Origin

The rarity and value of an opal can also be influenced by its origin. Here are the average prices of some of the more popular opals.

Australian Opals are the most valuable due to their vibrant colors and fire, ranging from $10 to $6,000 per carat. 

Mexican Opals are cheaper, priced at $7 to $300 per carat, but still highly prized for their beauty. 

Ethiopian Opals, which can cost anywhere from $5 to $250 per carat, are highly coveted for their breathtaking display of color.

Black Opals typically have the highest price and are sold for $10,000 to $20,000 per carat.

White Opals are quite expensive, with an average selling price ranging from $10 to $6,000 per carat.

Fire Opal is available in various qualities, with prices typically ranging from $10 to $300 per carat.

Blue Opals are affordable, usually priced between $1 – $250 per carat.

Overall, the value of opals can vary greatly depending on their origin, with some locations producing rarer and more valuable opals than others.

2. Quality Factors

Opal’s physical properties play a crucial role in determining its quality and overall desirability. The key quality factors related to the physical properties of opal include:

1. Hardness: Opal’s hardness is crucial for determining its durability and resistance to scratches. It ranks relatively low on the Mohs scale, usually between 5.5 and 6.5. Although not as hard as other gemstones, opal can still be used in jewelry if treated gently.
2. Specific Gravity: Specific gravity is a measure of how dense a gemstone is compared to water. Opal typically has a specific gravity ranging from 1.98 to 2.20. This information is useful for gemologists to distinguish real opals from fakes or synthetic materials. Checking the specific gravity can help confirm the authenticity of an opal.
3. Refractive Index: Opal’s refractive index (RI) describes how light bends when it goes through the gemstone. Opal usually has a low RI, ranging from 1.37 to 1.47. The beautiful colors in opal come from light diffraction and spreading out, creating its special shimmer.
4. Cleavage and Fracture: Opal has a smooth, curved fracture resembling a shell shape. It doesn’t have clear splitting directions, making it less likely to break along specific lines. When cutting and setting opal, its fracture pattern should be considered for durability.
5. Density: Opal’s density, or mass per unit volume, can differentiate opal types due to impurities, water content, and opal variety. Generally, opal has lower density than most gemstones.
6. Porosity: Opal is a mineral with water inside. The amount of water in opal affects its stability and vulnerability to damage. More water makes opal stable but excessive water can cause damage.
7. Thermal and Chemical Sensitivity: Opal is relatively sensitive to heat, sudden temperature changes, and chemical exposure. High heat can dehydrate and dull its colors, while harsh chemicals can damage its surface. Care should be taken to protect opal from such conditions.

Opal’s physical properties, optical properties, and appearance should all be considered together when evaluating its quality and suitability for various uses.

3. Demand Factors

The pricing of opals is influenced by factors such as fashion trends and cultural and historical significance.

•  Cultural & Historical Significance: Opals have been highly regarded in various cultures for their mystical and healing properties.

Ancient Romans saw opals as symbols of purity and hope, while Aboriginal culture considers them sacred, believed to have originated from the creator’s footsteps.

•  Fashion Trends: Opals become more expensive when they are considered trendy in fashion, leading to increased demand and higher prices. 

This was the case in the 1950s and 60s, as well as in recent years due to their popularity in bohemian and vintage styles.

Opal Enhancements

Opal enhancements are techniques used to improve the appearance and durability of the gemstone. Here are the most common techniques used:

1. Impregnation – filling the pores of the stone with wax, resin, or plastic to increase durability and prevent cracks.

2. Dyeing – artificially coloring the opal to enhance appearance, but this can negatively affect its value since it’s not a natural color.

Enhancements should be disclosed when purchasing an opal, and there are guidelines in place to ensure this.

Detecting Synthetic Opals

Here are the steps to ensure the authenticity of an Opal:

1. Tests for synthetic materials, such as plastic or glass, to identify fake opals.

2. Use microscopic examination and spectral analysis to detect synthetic opals.

3. Look for natural opal characteristics like random color patterns, grey lines, and faceted pieces.

4. Synthetic opals often display more uniform colors and have a lower body tone.

5. Refer to a reputable opal guide, like the one from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).

6. Evaluate factors such as opal type, play of color intensity, size and shape of silica spheres, and overall appearance.

7. Consider rarity, beauty, size, weight, and condition to determine the opal’s value.

The Most Expensive Opals

The ‘Virgin Rainbow’ is the most expensive opal from Lightning Ridge, Australia. It is rare and of exceptional quality with vibrant rainbow colors visible from every angle. 

Weighing 72 carats, it is valued at around $1 million. Discovered in 2003 by John Dunstan, it is unique because black opals are only found in Lightning Ridge, with only about 2% of opals mined in the area being black opals.

It is important to consider personal preferences and budget when choosing an opal.

Why Choose an Opal?

Here are some reasons why choosing an opal can be a great option for those who appreciate unique gemstones:

• Opals have a one-of-a-kind play of color that is hard to find in other gemstones.

• Each opal is unique and has its own individual characteristics, making it a truly special gemstone to own.

• Opals are available in a range of colors, from white to black and everything in between, giving buyers a wide variety of options to choose from.

• Opals can be cut and shaped into different sizes and styles, making them versatile for use in jewelry.

• Compared to other precious stones, opals are relatively affordable, making them accessible to a wider range of buyers.

Overall, choosing an opal can be a great option for those who want a unique and affordable gemstone.

Final Thoughts

Opals are highly valuable gems because of their unique qualities and rarity. Their price is determined by factors such as rarity, quality, and demand. 

In addition to their beauty, opals are believed to promote emotional stability and creativity, making them a symbol of hope and optimism. 

Owning an opal is a valuable and special experience that can bring positivity and healing to its wearer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the history of opals and how have they been valued throughout time?

Throughout history, opals have always been treasured for their stunning play of color. The Romans saw them as symbols of hope and purity, while the Middle Ages linked them with good luck. Today, opals remain highly valued for their rare and exquisite beauty.

How are opals extracted and processed for use in jewelry?

Opals are mined using different methods like tunnels and open pits. After mining, they are sorted, processed, shaped, and polished for jewelry.

Are there any cultural or spiritual beliefs associated with opals?

Opals have had cultural and spiritual significance. They were believed to bring luck and healing properties.

How do opals compare to other gemstones in terms of durability and wearability?

Compared to other gemstones, opals are soft and fragile compared to other gemstones. They need special care to avoid damage, even though they are popular due to their unique beauty and color.

What are some common misconceptions or myths about opals?

Opals are often misunderstood, with some believing they are bad luck or fragile. However, opals are durable and can be worn daily. They come in various colors and patterns, making them valuable and unique.