October is Opal Month

nottingham27
Oct 10
3 min read

Bespoke handmade wedding rings — Australian Opal & Diamond Ring

How to Care for Your Opal Jewellery: Tips from Your Local Jeweller 💍

Opals are among the most captivating gemstones, known for their vibrant play of colour and unique origin stories. But did you know that opals also require a little extra love to keep their brilliance alive?

At Cathy Stephens Jewellery, your trusted local jeweller in Nottingham and Groby, Leicestershire, we believe every piece of jewellery deserves thoughtful care—especially opals.

Why Opals Need Special Attention:

Opals are formed in ancient inland seas and shaped by the extremes of the Australian outback. While Australian opals are the most durable in the world, they’re still sensitive to sudden temperature changes, moisture, and harsh chemicals.

To care for your opal is to honour the story it carries—formed in an ancient inland sea, shaped by time and the extremes of the outback.

Australian opal is a hydrated silica crafted by nature, layer by luminous layer, it's the most durable opal in the world, measuring 6.5 on the Mohs scale—built tough, as we like to say, to withstand the rugged landscape it comes from. But while it carries a quiet strength, it’s still a precious gemstone. Tough by nature, precious by design, your opal will stay luminous for generations with just a little mindful care.

TTop Tips for Caring for Your Opal Jewellery:

Avoid Exposure to Heat and Chemicals
Opals are porous and can crack or lose their lustre when exposed to extreme heat or household cleaners.
Store Separately
Keep your opal jewellery in a soft pouch or lined box to prevent scratches from harder gemstones.
Clean Gently
Use a soft, damp cloth to clean your opals. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaning.
Wear with Care
Opals are best worn on special occasions. If you wear them daily, consider regular check-ups to ensure the setting is secure.

Can solid opal get wet?

Yes, it can! Solid opals are made from hydrated silica, which naturally contains water molecules—so exposure to moisture won’t harm them. In fact, washing your solid opal in tepid (body temperature) water is perfectly safe. That said, it’s best to remove your opal before handling food, cleaning products, or any harsh chemicals to keep it looking its best

Can doublet or triplet opal get wet?

Doublets and triplets are composite opals—thin layers of precious opal bonded to a darker backing like potch, plastic, or glass, often with a domed top layer. These layers are joined using adhesive, which can be vulnerable to water over time. Prolonged or repeated exposure to water may weaken the glue, causing the layers to separate or creating a cloudy, irreversible appearance. To be safe, it’s best to avoid water when wearing doublet or triplet opal.

How do I store my opal?

When your opal isn’t being worn, a little care in how you store it can make all the difference. Opals should always have their own space—avoid keeping them with other gemstones or jewelry that could scratch their surface. Store your opal in a soft-lined jewelry box or a dedicated silky pouch, ideally with a felt or fabric lining. Giving your opal a cushioned, protected spot will help maintain its polish and prevent any accidental damage from harder stones or sharp edges

shaped, diamond set and 2 tone wedding bands

Need Help with Opal Repairs or Cleaning?

We offer jewellery repairs and professional cleaning services to help your opals stay luminous for a lifetime. Whether it’s a cherished heirloom or a recent purchase, our expert team is here to help.