How to Care Your Opals

How to Care for Your Opal

Understanding the Difference Between Solid Opal and Composite Opal

Opal is a stunning and unique gemstone, loved for its vibrant play-of-colour and natural beauty. However, because opal is different from harder gemstones like diamonds or sapphires, proper care is essential to keep your opal jewellery looking beautiful for years to come.

The most important first step in opal care is understanding what type of opal you own — solid opal or composite opal (doublet or triplet) — as each requires slightly different care.

General Opal Care Tips (For All Opal Types)

Regardless of type, these basic care rules apply to all opal jewellery:

  • Avoid hard knocks or impacts

  • Do not wear opal jewellery during sports or heavy manual work

  • Avoid extreme temperature changes

  • Remove opal jewellery before household cleaning

  • Keep away from harsh chemicals, perfumes, and cosmetics

  • Clean gently using a soft cloth

Opal is best treated as a gemstone for careful, thoughtful wear.

How to Care for Solid Australian Opal

Australian solid opal is considered one of the most stable opals in the world, making it suitable for everyday jewellery when properly cared for.

Best Practices for Solid Opal

  • Clean with a soft, damp cloth

  • Mild soap can be used occasionally

  • Dry thoroughly after cleaning

  • Store separately to avoid scratches

Solid opals do not contain glued layers, so they are generally more resistant to moisture than composite stones.

How to Care for Composite Opal (Doublets & Triplets)

Doublets and triplets are beautiful and practical opal options, but because they are layered stones, they require extra protection from water and chemicals.

Special Care Tips for Doublets & Triplets

  • Avoid prolonged water exposure
    Do not soak in water or use ultrasonic cleaners.

  • Remove before showering, swimming, or washing dishes
    Excess moisture can weaken the bonding over time.

  • Clean only with a soft, dry or slightly damp cloth
    Never submerge composite opals in water.

  • Avoid steam and heat
    Hot water and steam can affect the layers.

When cared for properly, opal doublets and triplets can remain beautiful for many years.

 

How to Store Opal Jewellery Safely

  • Store opal jewellery separately from harder gemstones

  • Use a soft pouch or lined jewellery box

  • Avoid storing in very hot or very dry environments

  • For solid opals, normal household humidity is sufficient

Proper storage helps prevent scratches and keeps opals looking vibrant.