How to care for your Opals & Jewellery

OPAL CARE

Opal is a beautiful and unique gemstone, but like all precious stones, it deserves a little extra care to keep it looking its best. Opal is relatively delicate, with a hardness similar to glass, which means it can be scratched, chipped or damaged if knocked against hard surfaces. We recommend treating your opal jewellery with care and avoiding activities where it may be exposed to unnecessary impact. Remove your opal jewellery before exercising, playing sport, gardening, cleaning or doing other hands-on activities. It's also best to keep your opal away from harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners and extreme conditions. When your opal needs cleaning, gently wipe it with a soft, damp cloth. For a more thorough clean, use lukewarm water with a small amount of mild soap, then carefully dry it with a soft cloth. When you're not wearing your opal, store it separately from harder gemstones and jewellery to help protect it from scratches.

OPAL WATER EXPOSURE

Solid Australian opals are generally stable when exposed to everyday water and can usually be worn while showering or washing your hands. However, we still recommend removing your opal jewellery before swimming or prolonged water activities, particularly where chlorine, salt water, soaps or other chemicals may be present.

Ethiopian opals require extra care. Many Ethiopian opals are hydrophane opals, meaning they can absorb water and other liquids. Exposure to fresh water may temporarily change the appearance, transparency or colour of the opal. The stone will generally return to its normal appearance once it has completely dried. However, Ethiopian opals should be kept away from soaps, perfumes, creams, oils, cleaning products and other liquids wherever possible. Because hydrophane opal can absorb liquids, exposure to these substances may result in a permanent change in colour or appearance. If your Ethiopian opal is accidentally exposed to a product, gently rinse it with fresh water and wipe it with a soft microfibre cloth. Allow it to dry naturally and completely. Never use a hairdryer, heater or other drying device, as rapid or excessive heat may damage the stone.

Doublet opals are made by bonding a thin layer of natural opal to a backing material. While occasional contact with water may not immediately damage the stone, repeated or prolonged exposure can potentially affect the adhesive over time. For this reason, doublet opal jewellery should be removed before showering, swimming or participating in water-based activities.

If you're ever unsure whether your opal should get wet, the safest option is to take it off before swimming, showering or prolonged exposure to water. A little extra care can help protect your opal and keep its beautiful colour and play-of-colour looking its best for years to come.

CLEANING YOUR OPAL JEWELLERY

Regular, gentle cleaning can help keep your opal jewellery looking beautiful and showcase the natural colour and play-of-colour of your stone. For solid Australian opal jewellery, gently clean your piece using warm water and a small amount of mild soap. A soft-bristled toothbrush or soft sponge can be used to carefully remove dirt and buildup around the opal and its setting. Once clean, rinse thoroughly with fresh water and dry gently using a soft microfibre cloth. Avoid abrasive materials, harsh chemicals and jewellery cleaning solutions, as these may damage the opal or affect its setting.

MORE ON OPAL JEWELLERY CARE

A little extra care can go a long way towards protecting your opal jewellery and keeping it looking beautiful for years to come. We recommend removing your opal jewellery before applying perfume, makeup, lotions, creams or other beauty products. Avoid exposing your jewellery to harsh chemicals, cleaning products or abrasive substances, as these can affect both the opal and its setting. It’s also best to remove your opal jewellery before swimming, using a spa or participating in water activities. Chlorine, salt water and other chemicals can potentially damage the jewellery, particularly settings, adhesives and certain types of opal. With regular wear, your jewellery may naturally develop small scratches or signs of use over time. Periodically check the bezel, claws or prongs holding your opal to make sure they remain secure. If you notice any looseness, damage or movement, stop wearing the piece and have it checked by a qualified jeweller. Be mindful of your opal jewellery catching on clothing, hair, bags or other objects, as this can place pressure on the setting or stone.