Opals are classified as both precious gemstones and sedimentary stones and, in essence, they are made of sand and water. Owners of opal fine jewelry often say that it’s the beautiful array of colors that are displayed that attracted them to opals in the first place. And, interestingly enough, every opal is unique from other opals just as snowflakes or fingerprints are different from each other.
One thing to keep in mind is that these lovely gemstones are extremely delicate and they can crack easily if they’re exposed to drastic changes in temperature. Opal’s delicacy means that it requires tender care.
If you are a proud owner of exquisite opal fine jewelry pieces, here’s how to clean and care for them.
The first thing to figure out is the type of opal you have since it will determine the way you will care for your stones. Opals can be solid, doublets or triplets.
Solid opal is also called ‘’pure opal’’ because it consists wholly of precious opal. It has only been cut and polished. Contrary to its name, solid opal is actually soft and easily damaged, so you should not wear it whenever there is a chance you might scratch it (when doing the housework, gardening, etc.).
Doublets are comprised of two layers – a thin slice of opal that is adhered to a black backing. Because the opal is cemented to the black backing, do not expose the doublet to water for a prolonged period of time. Wearing it in the shower or getting caught in the rain shouldn’t damage it, however.
Triplets are basically doublets with an additional layer on the top. The top layer is transparent (usually quartz or glass) and it serves a dual purpose: protects the opal and makes it rounder in shape. It reacts to water in the same way as a doublet, so be careful with prolonged exposure.
Some general guidelines to cleaning opal fine jewelry is to clean them every 2 months, that way you can remove any traces of dirt and skin oils. Having less dirt and buildup will help prolong the life of your opal.
If the opal gemstone on your jewelry looks dull even after you’ve cleaned it, it may be scratched. In this case, you may need more than a simple cleaning, especially if you have had the jewelry for a few years. You should take the jewelry to your local jeweler for professional polishing. The jeweler will also assess whether any repair is necessary.
NOTE: Never ever have your opal cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner. The vibrations can crack a solid opal and cause water penetration to doublets and triplets.
Your fine opal jewelry may contain other gemstones and metals, which will also need cleaning after you have cleaned the opal. Since these gems and metals will typically be more durable, you could use a mild detergent and a soft toothbrush but be careful not to scratch the opal with the toothbrush. For more tips, check out our article about cleaning gold, silver, platinum and pearls.
If you are a fan of opal, you will be happy to learn that Leo Hamel Fine Jewelry and Engagement Ring Store houses a selection of delicately exquisite new, vintage and antique opal fine jewelry items, from diamond and opal rings and antique art nouveau opal and seed pearl pendants to vintage diamond and opal geometric earrings. Visit us on San Diego Avenue!