Opal jewellery is unlike any other. From its mesmerising colour play to its rarity, solid Australian Opals are around 5000 times rarer than diamonds, these gemstones deserve thoughtful care. Whether you own an Opal ring, pendant or earrings, this expert-backed guide will teach you how to clean, store and protect your jewellery so it stays radiant for years to come.
What Makes Opals Unique
Australian Opals are naturally hydrated gemstones with a water content of 6 to 10 percent. This makes them more sensitive to their environment than harder stones like diamonds or sapphires. On the Mohs hardness scale, Opals range between 5 and 6.5, which means they can be vulnerable to scratches, cracks or sudden temperature changes. They also come in different forms, solid Opals, doublets and triplets, each requiring specific care.
Common Mistakes That Damage Opals
Two simple habits cause the majority of Opal damage. First, sleeping in your jewellery exposes it to accidental pressure or impact. A ring can hit a hard surface during sleep, leading to chips or fractures. Second, storing multiple jewellery pieces together allows harder materials like diamonds and gold to scratch the Opal’s surface. Always store your jewellery individually in soft cloth or pouches to avoid this kind of damage.
How to Store Opal Jewellery Safely
To prevent drying and cracking, proper storage is essential. Wrap each piece in a soft, slightly damp cloth before putting it away. Avoid storing Opals in dry, airless places such as safes or hot display cabinets. For long-term storage, place the jewellery in a sealed plastic bag with cotton wool and a few drops of water to preserve ambient humidity. If your Opal jewellery hasn’t been worn for several months, soaking it briefly in lukewarm water once a year can help maintain its natural moisture.
How to Clean Opal Jewellery Properly
Cleaning Opal jewellery at home is both safe and effective when done gently. Use warm water, a mild soap and a soft cloth or toothbrush to remove oils and dirt. Do not use bleach, ammonia, alcohol or abrasive cleaning agents. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally discouraged, but if necessary, suspend the piece in a plastic mesh basket to avoid contact with hard surfaces. For ongoing care, a professional jewellery polishing cloth is ideal for keeping your Opal’s shine without risk of damage.
Caring for Different Types of Opals
Solid Australian Opals are naturally durable when properly cared for and can be cleaned using water-based methods. Doublets and triplets, however, are layered stones bonded with adhesive. While modern adhesives are fairly resistant to water, older pieces may still experience delamination if soaked. These types should always be cleaned with extra care and dried immediately after contact with moisture.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your Opal appears dull, chipped or cracked, it is best to seek expert assessment. The Classic Jewellers offers professional re-polishing, resetting and restoration services to bring damaged Opals back to life. We also recommend regular inspections to preserve both the gemstone and its setting, particularly for heirloom pieces.
Final Tips to Keep Your Opal Jewellery Radiant
Always apply perfume, lotion and hairspray before putting on your jewellery to minimise exposure to chemicals. Remove Opal rings before swimming, gardening or using household cleaners. Store each piece individually in a soft cloth or box, away from extreme heat or dryness, to protect it from damage.
To see the beauty of Australian Opals in person, you're welcome to book a private appointment at our showroom where you can explore a curated selection of solid Opals, doublets and handcrafted jewellery. You can schedule your visit here. If you prefer to browse online, our complete Opal collection is available here.
