Opal jewelry
Handcrafted opal necklaces, earrings, and bracelets, made to order in our Colorado studio. Set in sterling silver, 14K gold-fill, and solid 14K gold.
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About opal
Opal is a a hydrated form of silica, between 3 and 21 percent water by weight, with play-of-color caused by light diffracting off internal silica spheres rated 6 on the Mohs hardness scale, Opal rates 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it one of the softer gemstones. For context, a steel nail is roughly 6.5, sapphire is 9, and diamond is 10. Opal also contains water, which makes it sensitive to temperature changes and dehydration. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, harsh chemicals, and prolonged dry heat. Clean with a soft cloth and lukewarm water. Ring settings benefit from a protective bezel.. Its color ranges from white or black body color with flashes of every color of the rainbow, an effect called play-of-color, as well as solid orange-red fire opal varieties, with the most prized stones showing even saturation and high clarity.
Opal has captivated cultures for thousands of years, with the Romans calling it cupid paederos, child of love. The name comes from the Latin opalus and the Greek opallios, meaning to see a change in color. Australia produces the vast majority of the world's precious opal, with Lightning Ridge famous for black opal and Coober Pedy for white opal. Ethiopian opal, discovered more recently, has added new color profiles to the market.
Historically, opal has been associated with creativity, emotional expression, and imagination. In crystal healing and metaphysical traditions, opal is associated with the Crown Chakra and creative inspiration. It is linked to emotional honesty, intuition, and bringing hidden qualities to light. Practitioners often use it as a stone for artistic work and self-discovery, themes that align with October's introspective transition into autumn.
Opal vs moonstone
Same color family, different stones. Here's how to choose.
Opal
Opal and moonstone are different minerals but share a similar luminous quality. Opal is hydrated silica and rates 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale; moonstone is a feldspar and rates 6 to 6.5. Opal shows play-of-color across the full spectrum from light diffracting through silica spheres; moonstone shows adularescence, a single soft blue or white glow that floats just beneath the surface.
Moonstone
Opal is more dramatic, with multiple colors visible at once and significantly higher price points for fine pieces, especially black opal. Moonstone reads as a single soft glow at more accessible cost. If you are deciding between the two for a luminous stone, opal offers the rainbow spectrum; moonstone offers a subtler, more ethereal look.
Born in October?
Opal is one of two modern birthstones for October October birthstones, alongside opal and tourmaline are both modern birthstones for October. For people who follow birthstone jewelry traditions, opal makes a distinctive gift for anyone born in October. Its play-of-color is unlike any other gemstone, with flashes of multiple colors from a single stone, and the symbolism of creativity and emotional expression gives it personal weight. Opal requires gentler care than harder stones, which suits people who appreciate something a little out of the ordinary.
See all October birthstones on the October birthstone jewelry hub.
Shop October birthstone jewelryShop more
Made to order in Colorado
Every opal piece is handcrafted to order in our Steamboat Springs studio, shipped in about 10 business days, and arrives in eco-friendly gift packaging.
Opal Jewelry: Frequently Asked Questions
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Is opal the birthstone for October?
Yes. Opal is the traditional October birthstone. Tourmaline is the modern October birthstone, added to the official list in 1952. Both are recognized and available in our October birthstone collection alongside pink topaz.
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Is opal durable enough for everyday jewelry?
Opal rates 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it softer than most other gemstones. It is best suited for necklaces and earrings, which receive less impact than rings and bracelets. If worn in a ring, a bezel setting provides the most protection. Remove opal jewelry before heavy activity.
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Why does opal change color?
Opal displays play-of-color, a phenomenon caused by the diffraction of light through its internal structure of tiny silica spheres. As light enters the stone at different angles, it breaks into spectral colors. No two opals have the same play-of-color pattern. Opal is a hydrated silica mineral (Mohs 5.5 to 6.5).
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How should I care for opal jewelry?
Clean opal with a soft damp cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam, harsh chemicals, and prolonged soaking in water. Opal contains water in its structure and can crack if exposed to extreme temperature changes. Store separately from harder stones.
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What anniversary is opal associated with?
Opal is the traditional gift for the 14th wedding anniversary. It is also given for October birthdays as the traditional birthstone. Our opal jewelry starts at $20 and ships gift-ready with eco-friendly packaging.
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What makes Erin Gallagher opal jewelry different?
Every piece is handcrafted in Steamboat Springs, Colorado in 14K gold, gold-fill, or recycled sterling silver and ships gift-ready at no extra charge. We carry opal across necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, and charms, rated 4.7 stars across 2,656+ reviews. Opal from $20. Free shipping over $150.