How To Buy Opals Apr 2026

Look for a high "cabochon" (dome). It shows off the color better. 🚩 Watch for Red Flags

Some opals absorb water and lose color temporarily. If you'd like to narrow this down, let me know: What is your budget range ? Do you have a favorite color (Fire red, ocean blue, etc.)? how to buy opals

Tiny cracks on the surface. These can eventually break the stone. Look for a high "cabochon" (dome)

Transparent. Colors look like they are floating. Check the Construction Not all opals are solid pieces of stone. Solids: 100% natural opal. Best for investment. Doublets: A thin slice of opal glued to a dark backing. Triplets: Opal slice with a clear quartz/glass cap. If you'd like to narrow this down, let

Look at the side. Straight, glued lines mean it's a composite. Pattern and Shape The way the color is arranged affects the price. Harlequin: Large, distinct squares of color. Rarest. Pinfire: Tiny dots of color. Common. Flash: Large blocks of color that blink on and off.

Milky base. Softer, more feminine appearance.