We love some gemstones for their beauty. And then on the other side, there are opals, shimmering with soul and energy. However, that growing fascination has also led to an increase in fake stones, imitations, and composites. And when you’re planning to invest, especially since the opal stone price can swing, it becomes essential to know what you’re buying. In this blog, we’ll learn how to find a real opal, but the easy way (even if you’re a beginner, we’ve got your back)!
Tip No. 1: Start With Why: What Are You Buying It For?
Before we dive into the physical traits, here’s a beginner-friendly truth: all real opals are not the same. Some are made for jewelry, others for energy work, and some are collector’s pieces. If you're planning to buy online gemstone for healing or metaphysical benefits, you’ll need a natural opal, not synthetic or imitation ones. Real opals have a vibrational quality that supports intuition, emotional clarity, and creativity. If your goal is spiritual, nothing beats the energy of a genuine stone.
Tip No. 2: Cabochon Stones Wholesale? Check the Sides
When buying cabochon stones wholesale, make sure you observe the side profile of the stone. A genuine solid opal will have a consistent body without layers. On the other hand, many "opals" sold in wholesale markets are doublets or triplets. These are layered constructions:
- Doublet: A Thin slice of real opal glued on a black base
- Triplet: It's a doublet topped with a quartz dome
From the top, they may look real. But a quick glance from the side will reveal the layered structure. If it’s a clean, uninterrupted dome, then you’re probably holding a solid opal.
Tip No. 3: Know the Play-of-Color Trick
This is one of the best real opal tips: examine the color play. Natural opals have an uneven rainbow effect that changes with light and movement. If the colors seem too perfect or too symmetrical like a digital print or scattered glitter, then it’s likely a synthetic or lab-created version.
Turn the opal under natural light and observe. Real opals show layers of color that move in slow, flowing patterns. If the colors appear static or artificial, that’s your first red flag.
Tip No. 4: Weight and Temperature Reveal a Lot
One of the easiest ways to identify natural opal is by how it feels. Real opals have a certain density and remain cool to the touch, warming gradually with skin contact. Synthetic versions made of resin or plastic feel lighter and warm up almost instantly.
Here's a simple test: You have to gently press the stone against your cheek. If it feels cool and stays that way for a few seconds, you might have a natural opal. If it feels warm right away, then you might have to stay cautious.
Tip No. 5: Tiny Imperfections Are a Good Sign
Nature doesn’t make perfect things. That’s why a real opal will usually have small inclusions, cloudy zones, or an uneven surface. On the flip side, fake opals often look too glossy, flawless, and glass-like.
Natural opals have a slightly organic feel, while fakes can appear machine-finished. This is one of the most reliable tips for gemstone buyers.
Tip No. 6: Use the Water Test, But Carefully
If your stone is an Ethiopian hydrophane opal, in that case, you can conduct the water absorption test. These opals can soak up moisture and change their appearance temporarily. Drop a little water on the stone:
- If it absorbs slowly, it’s likely hydrophane (real)
- If it resists water or looks unaffected, it might be synthetic
However, you should remember that this test isn’t universal. It's relevant only for the hydrophane opals, and not the other variant. Hence, refrain from soaking the opal unless you are sure that it's safe to do so.
Tip No. 7: Ask for a Certificate and Gemstone Sourcing Details
If you're unsure about a stone’s authenticity, ask the seller for a certificate of authenticity from a recognized gem lab. Trustworthy sellers won’t hesitate to provide one.
Also, ask about the origin. Australian black opals, Ethiopian hydrophane opals, and Mexican fire opals are among the most sought-after natural varieties. Knowing where your stone comes from can help you validate its identity and understand its pricing better.
Bonus Tip: How Opal Stone Price Reflects Its Quality?
Price is often a clue. If something looks too vibrant and is too cheap, it’s likely synthetic. The opal stone price depends on color vibrancy, body tone, pattern, transparency, and source.
- High-quality black opals are expensive due to their rarity and vivid color play.
- Ethiopian opals are quite reasonable but require a little extra care due to their fragile nature.
- Fire opals can range from low to mid, depending on color depth and clarity
Trust Your Eyes, Intuition, and Opal Stone Guide
Finding a real opal isn’t rocket science. In fact, with these seven practical tips, you don’t have to be a gemologist to shop confidently. Whether you're buying this gemstone for jewelry or emotional healing, awareness is your best protection.
Remember, real opals tell a story through their colors. They're not just pretty stones; they're soul mirrors. And once you learn how to recognize them, your crystal journey becomes even more magical.
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