Q. The Price of Opals
Why is it that some of the Opals are not too expensive and others cost as much as fancy diamonds? - Chesapeake

A. Like all gemstones, opal will vary in price with the quality of the stone. Diamonds will vary too, but there is broader knowledge about the relative difference in diamond qualities (for this you can access our web site or review some of the past questions). I am not aware of any opal that exceeded a “fancy” color diamond, but perhaps this is true. The majority of opal sold in the US are “doublets” and “triplets,” meaning that they consist of a layer of opal with either (or both) a black onyx back and a quartz dome (thanks to man’s help), to make the opal look bigger and better. The FTC requires the disclosure of this, but often salespeople are not aware. The most valuable opal come from the Lightening Ridge mine in Australia and are typically black opal with exceptional play of color. Opals are very soft and sensitive, which lead to the myth that only people born in the birth month should wear them; for others it is bad luck. Opals are best bezel set and should not be exposed to rapid changes in temperature (like taking a roast out of the oven and then getting ice for glasses from the freezer). Sand imbedded in the crystal can weaken the stone, causing it to spontaneously crack without trauma; for this reason, most jewelers require you to sign a waiver before they will repair one. A fine opal is a wonderful addition to a jewelry collection, and if worn with proper respect can be enjoyed for generations. All the best, David Nygaard

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