Be Mystified With a Black Opal Ring!

In a nut shell, the black opal ring is a symbol of elegance and mystique. There are a lot of things that have caught the attention of a lot people when it comes to these stones. One is that the beautiful colors that can be seen in each opal. Beneath its dark exterior lies a beauty like no other, and only a true jewel lover can appreciate these features. And for any occasion, even for an engagement ring, these precious stones can be the best gift choice.

You have to admit, black opals are very interesting jewelry pieces. Its enigmatic form and soft texture makes for a great ring centerpiece. A black stone with a bedazzling array of colors beneath the shiny exterior and you'll only keep wondering what these black opals are exactly. And where better to put these objects than on a ring right? These days, black opal rings have become very popular when it comes to gift choices, particularly for engagements.

So if you're deciding on what ring to go with on your engagement, why not try a black opal ring? Diamonds are great, but this can be a lot better. Rather than going with the conventional rings that people go for, why not go with these black beauties? Not only is it a unique choice, these rings are also quite cheaper than your typical diamond rings.

And think about the message that you'll be sending to your loved one with these extraordinary jewelry pieces. It isn't everyday that this type of ring gets to be given away for engagements. The stone on this ring will represent that love that, like the colors found in each stone, grows deeper and deeper. It's the perfect engagement ring!

So for your ring choices, whether for an engagement or as a gift, you can't go wrong with a black opal ring.

Shop Now:https://australianopaldirect.com/rings/black-opal-rings/

Diamonds Are Not The Only Option For Women's Wedding Rings

 One of the curious things is that, women have forever loved diamonds the most. But that trend is changing nowadays and is most apparent today, in the world of Opal Wedding Rings. Thankfully, people today are much more open to new trends.

Opal, the one jewel which has been ignored for years by people deciding to settle down, the one jewel, the reputation of which has suffered since the Victorian times is back in the wedding market for good. And you won't believe what the reason for its unfortunate decline in popularity was. It was the death of a fictional character in a Victorian novel!

Mercifully, those times of supreme ignorance have passed. But, it is a popular belief, even today, that the earlier the times, the more ridiculous the beliefs. Ironically, in the Middle Ages, which was much before the Victorian period, the opal was considered a blessing to have. Even in those times, people understood the various aspects of marriage. They believed that, the different colours seen in an opal reflected the different nuances of married life. It was also believed that, the various colours of the opal represented the various characteristics attributed to the zodiac signs.

Australia is renowned internationally for its exports of gold, opals and sapphires. It produces more than 90% of the world's opals. Coober Pedy, Lightening Ridge, Quilpie are only a few mines that are responsible for this humongous production. Therefore, it is only natural, that in Australia, women's wedding rings are increasingly being made of opals. And not just women, men are even more interested in such jewels than ever before. More so, because they can make a good business out of it by selling them to the women! Jokes apart, men have become more fashion conscious and are thus, experimenting more. They have become increasingly accepting of the idea of metro-sexuality.

Talking of opals, these beauties can be of different types. As opals are made of silica and water, they are generally quite soft. But certain opals can naturally be quite hard. These are the much older ones.

The black opals comprise of a small fraction of the total production of opals because of their lesser availability. The Lightening Ridge mines of New South Wales in Australia produce them. You can search for images on the internet for the black opal. You will see and recognise the fact that, black opals can be breathtakingly beautiful. Those which exude a navy bluish colour amidst all the blackness, give the impression of being some charmed object. The more you look at it, the more you cannot help but peer into it, as if you want to get lost in its mysterious beauty.

Shop Now: https://australianopaldirect.com/rings/opal-wedding-rings-opal-engagement-rings/

Unusual Engagement Rings: The Fierce Fire Opal

 Unusual Opal engagement rings are coming back in a big way. Many celebrities have been seen sporting gemstone rings, choosing to bypass the classic diamond for something much more unique. Of all the stones, the opal is certainly one of the most spectacular. Many people believe their brilliance to be greater than the diamond's, as the stone reflects the light to reveal a whole spectrum of different colours.

Your opal will never fail to surprise you, revealing new colours and patterns for years to come. Potential buyers who want something truly unique are attracted by the fact that no two opals are the same. You can truly state that the gemstone in your ring is one-of-a-kind.

The Fire Opal

This stone is Mexico's national gemstone as that is where the majority of the opal deposits are located. The fire in its name refers to the stunning colour of the stone, ranging from vivid red to oranges and also bright yellows. It is an absolutely ideal choice when considering a stone which is unusual. Engagement rings with fire opals are rare and would make yours very original.

Opals are usually associated with play-of-colour, the brilliant colour flashes the stone reflects in the light. The wonderful rarity of fire opals is that there are versions of this stone which have both play-of-colour and are transparent or translucent.

The fire opal is an ancient stone formed in Mexican volcanoes. As with other opals, it is formed primarily by water. It is created when water drips into lava which then fills any hollows or seams in the volcano. As lava contains high amounts of silica, this combined with water creates a solid gel containing the remaining water. This is a fast process which gives fire opals their translucence, as opposed to other opals which have a longer period to settle and form their play-of-colour diffraction grids. Fire opals form a play-of-colour only very occasionally if they happen to form in a spot which has less heat and pressure.

Both types of the fire opal look very spectacular and unusual. Engagement rings that use this stone should really have a protective setting which will shield the edges of the opal, due to its high water base and relative softness.

The highest value fire opals are the transparent type, as this means the stone is most often faceted. This is an element which is very attractive to wearers as the stone not only has its dazzling depth of fiery colour but is also very sparkly, too. It is said that the sparkling fire opal often reminds people of a dancing flame. Many people love the idea of owning a gemstone formed purely by Mother Nature; they believe it gives their unusual engagement ring even deeper meaning.

Shop Now: https://australianopaldirect.com/rings/opal-wedding-rings-opal-engagement-rings/

Tips For Shopping For An Opal Ring

 You know you want to get an opal ring, but are just not sure how to go about it. This is not surprising, considering the average person has little to no previous experience shopping for jewelry. It can easily become frustrating and overwhelming, especially if you are planning to spend a decent sum of money on this piece. You want to ensure you get your money's worth and that you choose a ring she is going to love.

When shopping for an opal ring, the first thing to consider is what occasion you are purchasing it for. Obviously, if you are buying as a wedding or engagement ring it should be much more luxurious than if it was just for a casual gift. Typically the more delicate and detailed a ring, the more money you are going to have to pay for it.

Opal is a beautiful gemstone that represents the month of October. It is a gleaming white color and the color of the stone is actually one of the most important things to watch for when shopping. You can tell a good opal stone from a bad by its brightness and luminescence. It should almost twinkle, whereas if you find a dull stone you pretty much want to avoid it.

The size of the actual ring itself is also important. You do not want to buy a lovely bauble for your lady only to have it slip off her finger. If you are trying to make it a surprise, take one of her old rings and use that for a size guide. Then you know which size of ring to get her.

You should always shop at a reputable and well known jewelry store. There are more than enough scammers out there and to avoid yourself getting taken advantage of, this is a key step. Always ask for the certified paperwork on any piece of jewelry before buying it. A good jewelry salesperson will have no problem at all providing you with this. Someone who avoids it on the other hand, you can pretty much bet they have something up their sleeve and you should not buy from them.

Buying an opal ring should not just be a task it should be fun. Jewelry is so gorgeous and you can spend your time window shopping trying to find just the right one. As long as you keep these handy tips in mind, you should have no problems.

Shop Now: https://australianopaldirect.com/rings/

Be Mystified With a Black Opal Ring!

 In a nut shell, the Black Opal Ring is a symbol of elegance and mystique. There are a lot of things that have caught the attention of a lot people when it comes to these stones. One is that the beautiful colors that can be seen in each opal. Beneath its dark exterior lies a beauty like no other, and only a true jewel lover can appreciate these features. And for any occasion, even for an engagement ring, these precious stones can be the best gift choice.

You have to admit, black opals are very interesting jewelry pieces. Its enigmatic form and soft texture makes for a great ring centerpiece. A black stone with a bedazzling array of colors beneath the shiny exterior and you'll only keep wondering what these black opals are exactly. And where better to put these objects than on a ring right? These days, black opal rings have become very popular when it comes to gift choices, particularly for engagements.

So if you're deciding on what ring to go with on your engagement, why not try a black opal ring? Diamonds are great, but this can be a lot better. Rather than going with the conventional rings that people go for, why not go with these black beauties? Not only is it a unique choice, these rings are also quite cheaper than your typical diamond rings.

And think about the message that you'll be sending to your loved one with these extraordinary jewelry pieces. It isn't everyday that this type of ring gets to be given away for engagements. The stone on this ring will represent that love that, like the colors found in each stone, grows deeper and deeper. It's the perfect engagement ring!

So for your ring choices, whether for an engagement or as a gift, you can't go wrong with a black opal ring.

Shop Now: https://australianopaldirect.com/earrings/black-opal-earrings/

Choose White Gold Hoop Earrings For a Versatile Look

 Gold opal earrings have long been worn as simple ear adornments, status symbols and as fashion accessories yet still remain one of the most popular forms of fine jewelry. Gold earrings come in colors ranging from yellow, rose and white, and in many styles. You can choose a small stud to nestle on the earlobe or a dangle drop style which may be more or less ostentatious. White gold hoop earrings are a very versatile look which is hard to deny.

A gift of fine gold earrings is always welcomed by anyone with pierced ears. It is a safe present choice but one that will be genuinely appreciated too. With all the styles available to you though, what are the best ones to buy?

Gold Stud Earrings

Studs are the smallest earrings because they fit completely on the earlobe. Their small size makes them the perfect gift for children, a first earring or for an expensive gemstone, such as a diamond stud. And they are perfect to complement the main earring if worn in a second or subsequent ear piercing.

On the positive side, gold opal earrings are affordable and pretty but on the downside, they can be easily overshadowed by flowing hairstyles, evening make-up and dressy necklaces.

Gold Dangle Drop Earrings

Dangle drop earrings on the other hand can hold their own against other dressy accessories. They come in a very wide range of styles and designs and different drop lengths ranging from a small drop to an extensive dangle length, any of which can be set with diamonds, pearls, opal or other gemstones. And it is this variety of choice which can make choosing the perfect pair of dangle earring styles so bewildering.

For example, ostentatious chandelier earrings, which have been very popular on Red Carpets around the globe of late, have made pearl and diamond chandeliers especially in white gold very popular. But their sheer size means they can sometimes be weighty, and the two combined means that some people can find them difficult to wear.

This is definitely not the case for gold hoop earrings which are often hollow to ensure that even the largest styles are comfortable to wear! The hoops themselves can be smaller or larger depending on your personal preference. They can be simple, open hoops or they can be more elaborate with etched design details. And for an altogether more interesting look, why not consider a pair of twisted gold hoops?

The current trends for white metals make white gold hoop earrings a perfect choice. They are arguably the most versatile earrings around at the moment. Small white gold huggy style hoops look great with jeans, beachwear, even maternity wear and yet larger styles and twisted white hoops look amazing for more formal celebrations.

Shop Now: https://australianopaldirect.com/earrings/gold-opal-earrings/

Dazzling Earring Sets for an Elegant Night Out

 When it comes to selecting an outfit for a night out on the town, many women start with their dress. They pull out their favorite party frock and design the rest of their outfit around it, including the shoes and the accessories. But what if you started with the accessories?

A great pair of shoes can make or break an outfit, as can a great pair of Opal Stud Earrings. It might sound crazy, but often, people go overboard with the accessories if they start with the outfit. Things might clash; things might look crazy - whereas if you start with the accessories and design a more muted outfit around it, you're more likely to look elegant and classy (which is what everyone is generally going for).

For instance, let's say you choose a leopard print dress. You probably don't want a pair of earrings that's going to clash with that pattern, and you might find yourself digging around your jewelry box, only to settle on a pair of earrings that, while not directly clashing with the outfit you've chosen, don't exactly work with it either. If you'd started with the earrings, you might have an easier time.

Sometimes, you have to let your accessories take center stage - let them do the talking. It seems like circular logic to many women, who have been taught that you start with your outfit and then pile the accessories on afterward. But that's just the problem - we tend to pile on the accessories without really thinking about whether they go with what we're wearing, and then we end up looking like a total mess when what we're going for is elegant and put together.

A well-dressed woman understands that it's not the amount of jewelry or accessories that you wear; it's how you wear them. She knows that less is often more, especially when it comes to jewelry, and that the right jewelry can influence an outfit greatly. She understands that if you want to wear crazy hot pink feather earrings, you better make sure all you're wearing in terms of clothing is a little black dress - so the earrings can truly take center stage.

Likewise, she knows that if she wants to rock a giant Tom Binns statement necklace, it's best paired with a white tee and a slim fitting pair of jeans - not with a leopard print mini dress. Style isn't something people are born with - it's something that's taught, and it's most certainly something that you can learn. Not sure what kind of earrings you should be choosing when it comes to dressing for an elegant night out? Start here.

Jewel tones were huge on the runways last season, and it seems that they'll be sticking around for yet another season. You may have spent summer embracing neon tones, but fall is all about more muted colors; colors that echo the changing leaves on fall foliage, the warm sun beating down in the dog days of summer.

Capture the jewel tone trend with a pair of quartz and citrine dangle earrings. Much like the chandelier styles that have been popular in the past, these gorgeous earrings look antique even though they're brand new. A gorgeous array of warm golden brown colors glitter on your ears. These dangle earrings are crafted from 18 karat yellow vermeil gold that sparkles in the sunlight, and each earring features three oval cut golden citrines, one oval cut smoky quartz stone and one oval cut Madeira citrine stone, all in prong settings. Don a matching ring, pair these with a long red gown and you're ready to light the night on fire.

When it comes to choosing your earrings for a night out, there's really nothing better than a great pair of diamond hoops. If you're looking to light up the dance floor or dazzle your wedding guests, consider a pair of 14 karat gold diamond pave inside-out hoop earrings. These well-crafted hoops glisten with 113 round cut diamonds in bead settings. Fit for a queen, these earrings will look just as good with a polished suit as they will with a wedding dress or a ball gown. If there's any material that belies elegance and class, it's diamonds, and these earrings boast a whole lot of them.

If dangle earrings and hoops feel a bit too heavy for your liking, consider a sophisticated pair of studs. Sterling silver Ethiopian Opal stud earrings are a nice contrast to almost any outfit, thanks to their white and blue sheen. They're a good alternative to diamonds, and are much less expensive. You can get a gorgeous look for a fraction of the price. With their beautiful iridescent auras of color that change as you move, these earrings are designed in polished rhodium plated sterling silver.

Shop Now: https://australianopaldirect.com/earrings/opal-stud-earrings/

Opal Inlay Rings: Affordable Luxury

Jewelry made with opals has become rather popular accessories. The availability of good quality stones, along with the mastery of skills needed to create splendid designs have made a beautiful Opal Earrings a much coveted commodity.

Now considered as an affordable luxury, opal jewelry offers no compromise on quality and creative workmanship. These are very exciting times for a consumer like me.

Opal is an eye-catching gemstone and I am especially fascinated that they can display the full color range of a rainbow. The uniqueness of its color play is just too good to ignore. It's not any more exclusive to people whose birthday is on the month of October. Opal has already caught a lot of people's fancy. And for some time now, it has become my favorite gem.

They make sensational jewelry, perfect if you want a fine-looking and unique piece for your collection. And if you're lucky, you could get them at an affordable price. The key is to know your opals and taking the extra effort to find the one.

An opal inlay ring is among the designs very fashionable these times. So if you plan to buy one, here are some things to consider:

- The ideal opal for inlaying is likely to be a fine quality crystal opal. An opal that is transparent so to see shimmers of color when you hold it against the light.

- If you have the right budget, you can opt for a black opal that is just divine for any kind of jewelry.

- Any metal setting will work for inlaid jewelry. Choose a setting thought that can provide stability, then beauty to your opal jewelry.

- If you opt to have accent stones, make sure they complement the opal. With opal as the center stone, it won't be a problem. Opal goes well with diamonds, rubies, and other precious stones.

- Consider the opal that you find most attractive and that fits your budget.

Browsing the web for opal jewelry, made me realize what I want for Christmas. I would definitely want to see a.96 carat black opal with diamond accents in 14k white gold setting around my right ring finger. Wearing rings around the index or pinky finger maybe vogue and meaningful but my ring finger would do fine. And yes, maybe a pair of matching opal earrings as well.

Shop Now: https://australianopaldirect.com/earrings/

Be Mystified With a Black Opal Ring!

 In a nut shell, the black opal ring is a symbol of elegance and mystique. There are a lot of things that have caught the attention of a lot people when it comes to these stones. One is that the beautiful colors that can be seen in each opal. Beneath its dark exterior lies a beauty like no other, and only a true jewel lover can appreciate these features. And for any occasion, even for an engagement ring, these precious stones can be the best gift choice.

You have to admit, black opals are very interesting jewelry pieces. Its enigmatic form and soft texture makes for a great ring centerpiece. A black stone with a bedazzling array of colors beneath the shiny exterior and you'll only keep wondering what these black opals are exactly. And where better to put these objects than on a ring right? These days, black opal rings have become very popular when it comes to gift choices, particularly for engagements.

So if you're deciding on what ring to go with on your engagement, why not try a black opal ring? Diamonds are great, but this can be a lot better. Rather than going with the conventional rings that people go for, why not go with these black beauties? Not only is it a unique choice, these rings are also quite cheaper than your typical diamond rings.

And think about the message that you'll be sending to your loved one with these extraordinary jewelry pieces. It isn't everyday that this type of ring gets to be given away for engagements. The stone on this ring will represent that love that, like the colors found in each stone, grows deeper and deeper. It's the perfect engagement ring!

Shop Now: https://australianopaldirect.com/rings/black-opal-rings/

Diamonds Are Not The Only Option For Women's Wedding Rings

 One of the curious things is that, women have forever loved diamonds the most. But that trend is changing nowadays and is most apparent today, in the world of Opal wedding rings. Thankfully, people today are much more open to new trends.

Opal, the one jewel which has been ignored for years by people deciding to settle down, the one jewel, the reputation of which has suffered since the Victorian times is back in the wedding market for good. And you won't believe what the reason for its unfortunate decline in popularity was. It was the death of a fictional character in a Victorian novel!

Mercifully, those times of supreme ignorance have passed. But, it is a popular belief, even today, that the earlier the times, the more ridiculous the beliefs. Ironically, in the Middle Ages, which was much before the Victorian period, the opal was considered a blessing to have. Even in those times, people understood the various aspects of marriage. They believed that, the different colours seen in an opal reflected the different nuances of married life. It was also believed that, the various colours of the opal represented the various characteristics attributed to the zodiac signs.

Australia is renowned internationally for its exports of gold, opals and sapphires. It produces more than 90% of the world's opals. Coober Pedy, Lightening Ridge, Quilpie are only a few mines that are responsible for this humongous production. Therefore, it is only natural, that in Australia, women's wedding rings are increasingly being made of opals. And not just women, men are even more interested in such jewels than ever before. More so, because they can make a good business out of it by selling them to the women! Jokes apart, men have become more fashion conscious and are thus, experimenting more. They have become increasingly accepting of the idea of metro-sexuality.

Shop Now: https://australianopaldirect.com/rings/opal-wedding-rings-opal-engagement-rings/

Talking of opals, these beauties can be of different types. As opals are made of silica and water, they are generally quite soft. But certain opals can naturally be quite hard. These are the much older ones.

The black opals comprise of a small fraction of the total production of opals because of their lesser availability. The Lightening Ridge mines of New South Wales in Australia produce them. You can search for images on the internet for the black opal. You will see and recognise the fact that, black opals can be breathtakingly beautiful. Those which exude a navy bluish colour amidst all the blackness, give the impression of being some charmed object. The more you look at it, the more you cannot help but peer into it, as if you want to get lost in its mysterious beauty.

How to Select an Opal Engagement Ring

 Do you have any plans of proposing to the woman whom you want to spend the forever with? Obviously, having your future wife state a resounding "yes" when you pop the question will bring excitement and joy to you, but seeing her eyes light up with your ring is even better. Your proposal is the start of your eternity with her, and it needs a lot of preparation: the romantic place, the unique way of asking her to be your wife and of course, the most important object which discreetly announces that she is your fiancé: the Opal engagement ring.

Today's engagement ring is not limited to the common diamond only. With all the creative jewelers worldwide and with all the gemstones coming from different sides of the globe, one can choose from a huge collection of rings in different hues and designs. Why be cliche when you can stand out with the purchase of an amazing gemstone. Australian opal engagement rings are the best choice since the gemstone itself is crafted in the country where the best Opals originated: Australia. But since these rings are sold at a high price, many low quality varieties are available in shops that are very deceiving, only skilled jewelers can recognize their ingenuity.

How do experts recognize the difference between precious and semi-precious Australian opal engagement rings? Here are the two categories that will guide you in choosing the ring your beloved will be flaunting to her friends:

- Radiance- When you look at the gemstone in different angles, you will be seeing several shining colors too, even though the stone is solidly black in color. This is just one of the characteristics that differentiate Opals from the rest of the stones, as the hues of this jewel are simply mesmerizing. If an Australian Opal doesn't reflect a lot of colors, it doesn't mean that it is not authentic. One should look closely if the sparkle is vibrant and if the stone is sandwiched to a base stone or another jewel as it may be a doublet or triplet. A buyer must examine an Opal under a bright light.

- Weight- Opals, like Diamonds, are also measured in karats. The higher the karat value, the more expensive the stone is. Try to weigh the jewel with your own hand to see if the stone is heavier enough to be considered real.

The radiance and the weight of the Opal dictate its price in the market. But do not be fooled if an engagement ring is expensive since sometimes, the price does not connote the quality of the product itself. Consider these tips in buying your rings of engagement:

- Buy from a trusted jeweler. Yes, this may mean an expensive jewelry too, but come to think of it, a shop which already established its name in the jewelry industry have gained the conviction of numerous clients through the years. Besides, these shops have ascertained good rapport with its customers; they will guide you in opting for the jewelry of your choice. Remember: shops which offer precious and semi-precious stones of superior quality to their patrons are the ones which last in this kind of business. When selecting opals try to find jewelers that purchase their stones directly from Australia. This means that you get the best gemstone (from Australia) without too many middlemen marking up the price.

- Reflect on store hopping. In order to purchase the ring of your preference, you should not settle on one trusted store only. Think of browsing through the catalogs of all the shops you have found, and choose your favorites on their collection. In this way, you will avoid the regret of buying the ring with better design and color.

Shop Now: https://australianopaldirect.com/rings/opal-wedding-rings-opal-engagement-rings/

How to Choose the Perfect Opal Rings

 Opal rings are one of the most flamboyant forms of opal jewelry. They have been prized down the ages for their breathtaking opalescence and dramatic range of color flashes. They have been considered lucky charms capable of bestowing many powers on the wearer including beauty, success and happiness as well as the powers of prophecy and foresight. And they symbolize hope and purity too. But it is their beauty, which makes opal rings perfect gifts.

When looking for the best opal ring you first need to focus on finding the ideal gemstone for the centerpiece. This can be quite difficult because there are a wide range of gemstone types but whether you choose a black, white, boulder, fire, jelly or any other opal, the most important thing to look for is the brilliance of the internal fire.

Like diamonds, opals are graded four ways according to their pattern, colors, shape and clarity. Apart from clarity, which must be good, these gradings are essentially descriptive classifications which can be interpreted subjectively. After all everyone will pick a different shape stone with different colors and patterns of opalescence for their favorite! But the best opals all have strong and striking plays of color. Gemstones with poor clarity and weak color plays do not make attractive rings.

Some opals exhibit a wide range of colors including blues, greens, purples and flashes of orange red and pink. And although many people believe that the best gemstones have the widest range of color play, this is again very subjective. It is the strength and vibrancy of the colors that makes a good opal. This means that you might prefer a gemstone with a bold blue and green color play to one which has a lot of colors but no life to it.

And if you are choosing an opal ring for someone else, say for an engagement ring, try to choose a gemstone which incorporates their favourite colors in its color play.

The best opal rings have high domed cabochon gemstones at their centers to maximise the color and make the most of its clarity. Superb clarity is important because any included sand particles can ruin the opalescence of the gemstone and with it, the appearance of the ring.

Once you have found your perfect opal, make sure it is set beautifully into a quality precious metal setting. The ring will look best if you choose a metal color matching the gemstone base color. Black opal rings always look best when made from white gold, silver or platinum but white and boulder opals can look wonderful in white or yellow metal depending upon the color plays within the gemstone itself.

Shop Now: https://australianopaldirect.com/rings/

The Right Gem for White Gold Engagement Rings

When it comes to white gold opal rings, there are some gems that naturally suit its glossy white colourings and others that do not. So if you and your partner have settled on using this extremely popular precious metal, you need be aware of what type of gems are best highlighted by white gold engagement rings.

White gold is extremely popular, with an incredible seventy percent of all jewellery stones being displayed or set in this gold. When it comes to your engagement ring, it all depends on the saturation and hue of your chosen gemstone, but typically, the best stones for white gold or platinum are those that are darker or have vibrant colouring. Vivid blue sapphires look beautiful, for example.

All gemstones tend to come in a range of colours and hues but the ones that go the best with white gold engagement rings are the ones that have a sharp, contrasting colour with the metal. Particular gems that stand out are rubies, emeralds, bright amethysts, tourmalines, garnets, onyx and sapphires; in some cases though, the contrast can be too much for the surrounding colour and your gem will appear darker.

Of course, diamonds also go beautifully with white gold, and in fact can look much better than when set in yellow gold. Diamonds have a tendency to reflect the metal used in the setting, so diamonds look brighter in these gold engagement rings. However, if you can only afford a lower quality diamond, which generally tend to have a yellow tint, putting it in a white gold setting can have the reverse effect, as the glossy white metal makes your stone's coloration more noticeable. In this case, a coloured metal, such as rose gold or yellow gold, would be your best choice, as the colour would mask the yellowish tints in the stone and make it look whiter.

It is recommended that, if your heart is set on white gold, you avoid pale or very light stones that have a tendency to blend in with the white metal and look washed out. Examples of light coloured stones that it is best to steer clear of are opals and aquamarines, which tend towards a light blue colour, and cheap tanzanites that are often a very pale purple.

There are, of course, other things to consider when choosing the right stone for your engagement ring, but the setting is probably one of the most important factors that you have to think about so ensure you make the right choice.

Shop Now: https://australianopaldirect.com/rings/gold-opal-rings/

Silver Opal Rings: The Stunning Look for Less

 In fashion, to show true beauty lies on how stunning your dress is and how elegant your jewelry are. Silver Opal Rings are the perfect accessory to reveal a unique and more noticeable you. There are also opal earrings, necklaces and bracelets but right now my job is to convince you why the opal rings are a must in your jewelry collection.

First, opals have certain features that are long lasting. Plus, its uniqueness is very special and natural. So perhaps, you can say that they are authentic. This is an October birthstone and they are of different colors such as gray, white and of course, my personal favorite which is blue. Another favorite of mine is the red opal which symbolizes burning passion and love.

The manufacturers of these fine jewelry are using precious gemstones to attract wearers particularly women. Every ring that is made with silver and opal can guarantee a diverse and worthwhile experience because of its rarity. This ring gives me with so much delight every time I use it because I am drawing attention from the crowd. Standing out never seems to tire me so I relish wearing my ring.

Because there are many types of opal rings, you have so many options to think about. If you want to look more dramatic then perhaps the black one is right for you. If you are practical, plain and simple then I say go for the white. We all have our favorites; thankfully, there's a wide array of opals that we can choose as centerpiece. Each unique, but sure to dazzle

Whenever I am in the mood to look mystical yet elegant then I pair my lovely dress with this exquisite silver opal ring. People then never fail to turn their eyes on me as the ring adds more glamour to my appearance and the good thing is the color matches almost any of my outfits. So if you are thinking of opal rings, choose silver colored metal settings.

You can find many online stores offering jewelry of impeccable quality. Plus, their websites are rather user-friendly so browsing for pictures or information should be a breeze. Make sure though that you check customer reviews and compare their prices with other online sellers. Even if these rings are rather affordable, you should ensure that you are getting your money's worth

Shop Now:https://australianopaldirect.com/rings/sterling-silver-opal-rings/

Opals - Fire and Beauty: What to Look Out for When Buying Opal Jewellery

 Opals are the stuff of legend! These beautiful gemstones have been popular since ancient times thanks to their beautiful play of colour and their opalescence, but these stones have also had the reputation of being unlucky. So why is this? I want to explain a little bit more about this delightful gemstone, a particular favourite of mine!

Even the name refers to beauty, since it means 'precious stone' and comes from Latin 'Opalus', or the Sanskrit 'upalas'. It is the birthstone for people born in October. It also appears as a Zodiac stone for those born under Virgo, Libra, and Scorpio, and is the stone for the 13th wedding anniversary. Depends whether you consider the number 13 to be unlucky, I suppose!

The majority of quality opals are mined in Australia. Opal Jewellery is formed from liquid silica which flowed into a gap or cavity and cooled, thus resulting in some very unusual shapes, such as wood, seashells and even dinosaur bones! This also means that opals have comparatively high water content, around 10%. For this reason they should never be allowed to dry out. Be especially careful with central heating radiators, or direct sun. I find it's best to keep them in a jewellery box or case when not being worn. Detergents can also affect them so don't do the washing up while wearing them! Not all opal is gem quality however, but the ones that are often need to be treated in order to make them more attractive and also to protect them from drying out. Opal stones can be manmade (either synthesized or altered in some way) and thus one can find many types of opal which are artificially produced. Therefore you need to be careful when selecting opal stone jewellery. The man made opals are sometimes called doublets or triplets. A doublet is a paper thin slice of genuine opal glued on a black backing, for example a piece of black onyx stone. Triplets are essentially doublets with a transparent glass, or quartz capping, and a plastic or stone back. A double opal is more valuable than a triplet because it contains more of the stone. Triplets are good because they are cheaper than a full stone while looking very attractive for a fraction of the cost. They are best found in rings, bracelets and necklaces. Silver necklaces seem to suit it best. Costume jewellery often contains triplets.

Opal is a stone of protection, faithfulness and loyalty. It is said that it can enhance super sensible vision and creativity. They are mystical gemstones of high vibrations. As such, they can have a wide spectrum of application on the physical as well as on the higher levels of existence. Some say that opal is able to absorb thoughts and feelings, to enhance them, and sent them back to the source. It is connected with the eye.

Mostly due to superstition, opal was considered bad luck. It was believed that opal can grant its bearer a power of invisibility - therefore it gained a bad reputation as an amulet for thieves. In Medieval times opal was generally disliked due to its similarities to the eyes of some "evil" animals. Thus, this beautiful stone used to provoke fear of the "Evil Eye". Yet others, like the Romans for example, considered that it granted protection from it, so make of that what you like! In my view, it seems a shame to let superstition prevent you from enjoying this lovely stone, so why not take a look at my website,for some beautiful examples on sale from selected retailers.

Shop Now: http://australianopaldirect.com/

To Care For Your Opal Jewelry

 These somewhat fragile but so lovely gems are unique among the gemstones. I have taken rough material, cut and polished many opals. I cannot count the number of opal stones I have set into Opal jewelry. I do love opals.

Opal advice. Here are the main things to think about when wearing and storing opal jewelry. First of all, opal is not as strong as some other stones but certainly is as durable as most emeralds you see. Opal is not as hard as emeralds but most emeralds will chip easily an due to internal flaws may even be damaged by cleaning! Opal is pretty safe when cleaned properly and is not going to chip or break unless it is give an nasty knock. You do have to be careful not to let the stone run against hard things or knock it around. Then again, who wants to knock around any jewelry!

Opal is a "glass-like" material, very similar to glass with a few particular exceptions: The glass-like structure explains the ability of opal to chip or scratch. Think of opal as glass and you will take good care of it automatically. Then again, although made of the same silica material as glass, opal is quiet different and that difference is what makes this precious stone so wonderful. Imagine taking a bunch of glass marbles and put those into a cereal bowl. Fill the bowl with water just enough to cover the marbles.

This is a simple visual example of how opal is constructed inside the gem. Over time, small spheres (balls) of silica come together and layer together until a complete stone is formed. Between the microscopic beads of silica is some water. Of course, the beads or balls of silica in an opal are much more tightly together than in the "marbles in a bowl" example and the water is much less. Opals may contain up to about 10% water.

The color and fire of an opal comes from the groups of the silica balls. The very size of the balls determines what light is reflected back to the eye. Some groups are close enough to reflect red light while others spaced a bit differently will reflect blue or green light. The balls break up the light and reflect a certain color depending on the size of the silica balls and the spacing of the balls in the gemstone.This is where the color comes from.

The water in an opal is stable, in a stable opal! Some opals are so "water logged" when mined that is a few weeks in dry air the stone will crack from drying out! Gem quality opals do not do this. Opal chosen for cutting into stones have a water content which is contained in the stone and are proven to be stable and safe. These opals should not change from "water loss" over the lifetime of the jewelry. Soaking an opal in water or oil is not needed and comes from old rumors.

General Care. Here is the rest of the care information. First of all, think of the opal as glass, even thought is it not glass but is similar. Keeping this in mind will prevent damage. Cleaning is easily done with a mild dish detergent at room temperature. Use a very soft brush or your fingers to take body oils and soil off the jewelry.Rinse and pat dry. This is an excellent time to check and be sure the stone is secure and tight in the setting. Tap the ring next to your ear to hear a slight "rattle" indicating a loose stone.

Heat and cold may damage an opal. Generally, when very sudden and extreme changes of temperature happen, an opal might be damaged. This is like heating the stone quickly with a flame..zap, like most other stones it will break. Everyday changes in temp will be safe. Do take care in extreme cases like going from a sauna to a dip in a frozen pond! That kind of temperature change could damage the stone. Everyday wear is safe.

I would not jump into a hot shower when coming in from the cold while wearing opals. Simply take the ring off and keep it out of the bath in the first place. This keeps the stone cleaner by avoiding very difficult to clean "soap scum" and the potentially dangerous sudden heat change.

Avoid abrasives. Abrasives are like sandpaper. Things which will scratch glass will scratch an opal. Take the ring off if you are going too wash dishes, working in the yard and when filling a sand box or applying makeup. Yes, makeup is abrasive. Most of the dark smudges folks get from wearing necklaces comes from makeup. The very fine particles in the make up are like microscopic sandpaper, rubbing away gold so fine that the gold looks black. That is the cause of most jewelry smudges, gold rubbed away by the finea "sandpaper" effect of make up.

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Be Mystified With a Black Opal Ring!

 In a nut shell, the Black Opal Ring is a symbol of elegance and mystique. There are a lot of things that have caught the attention of a lot people when it comes to these stones. One is that the beautiful colors that can be seen in each opal. Beneath its dark exterior lies a beauty like no other, and only a true jewel lover can appreciate these features. And for any occasion, even for an engagement ring, these precious stones can be the best gift choice.

You have to admit, black opals are very interesting jewelry pieces. Its enigmatic form and soft texture makes for a great ring centerpiece. A black stone with a bedazzling array of colors beneath the shiny exterior and you'll only keep wondering what these black opals are exactly. And where better to put these objects than on a ring right? These days, black opal rings have become very popular when it comes to gift choices, particularly for engagements.

So if you're deciding on what ring to go with on your engagement, why not try a black opal ring? Diamonds are great, but this can be a lot better. Rather than going with the conventional rings that people go for, why not go with these black beauties? Not only is it a unique choice, these rings are also quite cheaper than your typical diamond rings.

And think about the message that you'll be sending to your loved one with these extraordinary jewelry pieces. It isn't everyday that this type of ring gets to be given away for engagements. The stone on this ring will represent that love that, like the colors found in each stone, grows deeper and deeper. It's the perfect engagement ring!

So for your ring choices, whether for an engagement or as a gift, you can't go wrong with a black opal ring.

Shop Now: https://australianopaldirect.com/rings/black-opal-rings/

How To Buy A Wedding Ring

 According to tradition, the wedding ring is the last gift of an entire series, which was part of the engagement ceremony. This custom usually present since Roman ancient times was taken and adapted over time and reached the form we know today. The circle was designated as a form of rings, a symbol of endless love, eternity and resistance. The abundance of materials, patterns and colors transform wedding rings from simple jewelry in true works of art, designed to preserve the love between two spouses. Choosing wedding bands is, after all, personal and unique and must be adapted to the style and personality of the couple. We will try to offer you some simple tips about how to buy a Opal wedding ring

Plan! Do not delay choosing wedding bands. Around wedding will be a lot of things to be put in place and the variety of models of rings can be overwhelming in such moments. It would be better to start with at least three months before the wedding.

Be selective! Limit your search according to your style will help you save time. It is imperative that wedding rings to be identical, so you can choose different types of materials.

Set your budget! Depending on the manufacturer and store, prices may vary considerably. Before buying, ask if in the price displayed is included the engraving service, how much (if not included) and how long it lasts.

Choose the right style! The ring is the only accessory that you will wear for life. Something too sophisticated, solid or uncomfortable will be, eventually, a bad choice. Style is perhaps the most important aspect in how to buy a wedding ring.

Think of the future! The ring should be, by style and material, timeless and durable. An eccentric model can be charming now, but it is possible to regret the choice later on.

We already know, the ring is the most important piece of jewelry. Since the phase of wedding planning, wedding rings occupy a high place on the list. But when the time to decide comes, we panic and only then do we realize the responsibility that we have. You marry because you want to be with your partner until death do you part. This will mean some time. Therefore you must ensure that wedding rings will be those that you want to wear on your finger from now on. To meet these important decisions, we will offer some tips of how to buy a wedding ring.

Material
There are a wide range of materials for wedding rings. Typically, people think of traditional yellow gold wedding ring, but you can give up this cliché choosing one of the many variants on the market. For example, there is white gold, platinum or titanium, for a reasonable budget and silver, stainless steel, tungsten for those with a limited budget.

Gems
Decorations with precious stones denote elegance and get out of the Opal Wedding Rings . Both women and men can wear a ring with stone. If you consider such a ring, keep in mind that you should not necessarily opt for the classic diamond. Even if they are the most common, they are not the only ones. Cubic zirconium stones are the ideal choice for a low budget. Ruby, emerald or opals are other gems that you can use. How to buy a wedding band can only depend on your taste.

Search start
After you have decided what gem and material you want, it is time to start looking for your dream wedding ring. Classic jewelry stores or pawn shops are a budget option. That does not mean you will not find the perfect wedding band with a unique model in these places. Another option is to buy it online. You have all the information you need to make sure.

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Opal Engagement Rings - An Excellent Option for a Great Impression

 Now that you have found the woman you want to spend the rest of your life with, it's time to propose her. Without any doubt you want to hear a loud 'yes' with her eyed lighting up on seeing the ring you carry for that momentous occasion. Of course, you'll need to do your homework for this once in a lifetime moment by looking for a romantic place, rehearsing for that awesome way of proposing her and finding the most important item that tastefully declares her to be your fiancé, yes, the engagement ring!

The choice of Opal engagement rings is no more limited to diamonds only. Creative jewelers are using the large variety of gems pouring in from different countries to offer an amazing variety of rings having great designs and diverse hues. With so many of startling gemstones available, why follow the beaten track?

Opal rings seem to be a very popular option these days. The best opal is produced in Australia and some of the best opal engagement rings are also crafted in Australia. If you were thinking to come up with something less traditional, opal might be for you. But beware! Because these rings are highly priced, many vendors are taking advantage by offering low quality fakes to uninformed clients. Only expert and experienced jewelers can make out a fake from a real one.

Here are a few tips that will help you purchase an opal engagement ring that your beloved would love flaunting around to her friends:

Look for a great sparkle - On looking through the gemstone from different angles, you'll see many shining colors, though the color of the stone is solid black. This is among the most important characteristics that distinguish opal from other stones. This jewel really has gripping hues.

Choose a good weight - Just like in the case of diamonds, the measuring unit for opal is also the carat. The price of opal is directly proportionate to its weight. Holding the jewel in your hand try to feel its weight and see if it's heavy enough for being considered authentic.

High price doesn't necessarily mean high quality - The market price of opal is decided by its weight and sparkle. However, price of the ring is no guarantee for the quality of the stone you may be inclined to buy. Keep these points in mind while selecting an opal engagement ring.

Get it from a reputed jeweler - It always helps to deal with a reputed dealer. Though you may be required to pay a bit more, you can't overlook the fact that the jeweler earned his clients' trust over number of years. They successfully established a rapport with their clients. It's not easy to build reputation in such trades, especially. These jewelers are always willing to help clients choose the most appropriate piece that matches their choice and budget.

Shop Now: https://australianopaldirect.com/rings/opal-wedding-rings-opal-engagement-rings/

Opal Engagement Rings - Is an Opal Ring Perfect For You?

Opal Ring is some of the most exotic and eye catching jewelry you can wear. Opals flash with the colors of the rainbow trapped within a silica gemstone. The most valuable black opals appear as angry storm clouds passing behind a rain washed rainbow. No two opals are the same. The color play of each is totally unique. They are beautiful, porous, fragile, highly prized and steeped in myth and legend. They make stunning engagement rings. But is an opal engagement ring right for you?

After all, opals are unlucky unless they are your birthstone, right?

Not at all! Opals are the birthstone of October and the zodiac stone of Libra, and yet they are enjoyed, admired and worn by people with birthdays throughout the year without any apparent extra bad luck befalling them! So how did this myth arise?

Like all good stories, it started a long time ago, and in Europe.

Opals have been prized throughout time for their beauty and rarity and the late 19th century Europeans were no exception! The European opal market at that time was supplied by Hungary, although some also came from further afield in India and the Middle East. But all that changed in 1890 when a new supply of significantly better opals was discovered. These were Australian opals and the like of their fiery opalescence had never been seen before! To protect their market, the Hungarians claimed the new opals were fakes.

Sir Walter Scott, like all good writers, drew on the confused panic of the day. He wrote in a novel that opals brought bad luck to people not born in October. The cursed myth was born, and the European opal market spiraled into near destruction. Near disaster was only averted when Queen Victoria herself intervened by giving gifts of opal jewelry at a Royal wedding!

Today the cursed myth may have passed into legend, but the beauty of Australian opals remains for all to see. Black opals and the best white opals have significant fire and enough play of color to hold their own even when set alongside diamonds.

Opals are much softer than diamonds though, and so they should set so that the gemstone is protected from chips and scratches. 

Shop Now: https://australianopaldirect.com/rings/

Finding the Perfect Opal Ring

 Silver Opal Rings: The Stunning Look for Less

Gold Opal rings have been famous throughout history for their amazing display of colors and brilliant patterns. Many cultures in the ancient world regarded them as luxurious charms of fortune and good tidings. Even to this day, opal rings are highly desired for their unique beauty and elegance. This kind of jewelry is perfect for gifts since each opal is natural, rare, and unique. If you're looking for one, you're bound to be curious as to how to find the one that's perfect for your needs, budget, and tastes. Here are a few things to keep in mind in your quest for a perfect opal ring.

Finding the perfect opal ring depends on finding a high quality stone to use as the centerpiece. Opals are graded on four primary attributes: their patterns, colors, shape, and clarity.

Each opal ring has its own distinct patterns of swirling colors hidden within the stone and released when exposed to light. While the particular pattern that looks best to you is up to your own tastes, there is one thing that you should be looking for regardless, and that is brilliance. High quality opal rings will have patterns that are bold, brilliant, and beautiful. If the pattern seems weak, the ring will not be as good as it could be.

Many people feel that the more colors there are represented in an opal ring, the better the jewelry is. This is not necessarily true, however. Many of the best models only show two colors, but show them strongly. If the person you intend to buy the opal ring for has a favorite color, try to make sure that this is represented both richly and boldly.

The best opal rings have centerpieces which are dome shaped. This provides much more brilliance than a flat cut stone. Flat cuts are better used as inlays to accentuate the center of the ring than as the centerpiece themselves.

The clarity of an opal ring is absolutely crucial. Small sand particles often get stuck in opal stones, and if they are big enough they can mar the surface or interior of the stone. This will absolutely ruin the overall aesthetic of the ring, and detract from its value.

The perfect opal ring will also have a fantastic setting. The most popular choices for this are gold and white gold. This depends on the colors of the opal, so it must be decided on a case by case basis. As a general rule of thumb, offsetting the color of the band material with the color of the opal will draw more attention to the ring, helping it to stand out and be noticed. For instance, it's more common to see black opal rings with white gold.

In the end, finding the perfect opal ring is all about perseverance and knowledge. Knowing how to choose a high quality opal will get you most of the way there, but you still need to put forth the effort to discover it. Don't lose heart, and never settle for anything short of perfection!

Silver Opal Rings: The Stunning Look for Less

 In fashion, to show true beauty lies on how stunning your dress is and how elegant your jewelry are. Silver Opal Rings are the perfect accessory to reveal a unique and more noticeable you. There are also opal earrings, necklaces and bracelets but right now my job is to convince you why the opal rings are a must in your jewelry collection.

First, opals have certain features that are long lasting. Plus, its uniqueness is very special and natural. So perhaps, you can say that they are authentic. This is an October birthstone and they are of different colors such as gray, white and of course, my personal favorite which is blue. Another favorite of mine is the red opal which symbolizes burning passion and love.

The manufacturers of these fine jewelry are using precious gemstones to attract wearers particularly women. Every ring that is made with silver and opal can guarantee a diverse and worthwhile experience because of its rarity. This ring gives me with so much delight every time I use it because I am drawing attention from the crowd. Standing out never seems to tire me so I relish wearing my ring.

Because there are many types of opal rings, you have so many options to think about. If you want to look more dramatic then perhaps the black one is right for you. If you are practical, plain and simple then I say go for the white. We all have our favorites; thankfully, there's a wide array of opals that we can choose as centerpiece. Each unique, but sure to dazzle

Whenever I am in the mood to look mystical yet elegant then I pair my lovely dress with this exquisite silver opal ring. People then never fail to turn their eyes on me as the ring adds more glamour to my appearance and the good thing is the color matches almost any of my outfits. So if you are thinking of opal rings, choose silver colored metal settings.

You can find many online stores offering jewelry of impeccable quality. Plus, their websites are rather user-friendly so browsing for pictures or information should be a breeze. Make sure though that you check customer reviews and compare their prices with other online sellers. Even if these rings are rather affordable, you should ensure that you are getting your money's worth.

Opals - Fire and Beauty: What to Look Out for When Buying Opal Jewellery

 Opal Jewellery are the stuff of legend! These beautiful gemstones have been popular since ancient times thanks to their beautiful play of colour and their opalescence, but these stones have also had the reputation of being unlucky. So why is this? I want to explain a little bit more about this delightful gemstone, a particular favourite of mine!

Even the name refers to beauty, since it means 'precious stone' and comes from Latin 'Opalus', or the Sanskrit 'upalas'. It is the birthstone for people born in October. It also appears as a Zodiac stone for those born under Virgo, Libra, and Scorpio, and is the stone for the 13th wedding anniversary. Depends whether you consider the number 13 to be unlucky, I suppose!

The majority of quality opals are mined in Australia. Opals are formed from liquid silica which flowed into a gap or cavity and cooled, thus resulting in some very unusual shapes, such as wood, seashells and even dinosaur bones! This also means that opals have comparatively high water content, around 10%. For this reason they should never be allowed to dry out. Be especially careful with central heating radiators, or direct sun. I find it's best to keep them in a jewellery box or case when not being worn. Detergents can also affect them so don't do the washing up while wearing them! Not all opal is gem quality however, but the ones that are often need to be treated in order to make them more attractive and also to protect them from drying out. Opal stones can be manmade (either synthesized or altered in some way) and thus one can find many types of opal which are artificially produced. Therefore you need to be careful when selecting opal stone jewellery. The man made opals are sometimes called doublets or triplets. A doublet is a paper thin slice of genuine opal glued on a black backing, for example a piece of black onyx stone. Triplets are essentially doublets with a transparent glass, or quartz capping, and a plastic or stone back. A double opal is more valuable than a triplet because it contains more of the stone. Triplets are good because they are cheaper than a full stone while looking very attractive for a fraction of the cost. They are best found in rings, bracelets and necklaces. Silver necklaces seem to suit it best. Costume jewellery often contains triplets.

Opal is a stone of protection, faithfulness and loyalty. It is said that it can enhance super sensible vision and creativity. They are mystical gemstones of high vibrations. As such, they can have a wide spectrum of application on the physical as well as on the higher levels of existence. Some say that opal is able to absorb thoughts and feelings, to enhance them, and sent them back to the source. It is connected with the eye.

Mostly due to superstition, opal was considered bad luck. It was believed that opal can grant its bearer a power of invisibility - therefore it gained a bad reputation as an amulet for thieves. In Medieval times opal was generally disliked due to its similarities to the eyes of some "evil" animals. Thus, this beautiful stone used to provoke fear of the "Evil Eye". Yet others, like the Romans for example, considered that it granted protection from it, so make of that what you like! In my view, it seems a shame to let superstition prevent you from enjoying this lovely stone, so why not take a look at my website,for some beautiful examples on sale from selected retailers.

Opal Jewelry Information

 The earliest known opal jewelry artifacts uncovered in a cave in Kenya by famous anthropologist Louis Leakey were said to have dated back to about 4000 B.C., and were most likely originated from Ethiopia. History shows that the discovery and cultivation of the opal stone was important to the prestige and power of several ancient civilizations. As early humans continued to unearth various new and rare gemstones from the caves and crevices in which they were deposited hundreds of years before, they soon learned how to work them into decorative shapes. Once the craft of shaping opal jewelry was mastered, these mysteriously illuminating gems were rendered priceless, and revered for symbolizing great power and wealth.

What is Opal?

The modern name for the opal gem is derived from the Latin word "Opalus," meaning: "to see a color change." Scientifically, opal is an amorphous mineraloid comprised of water and a rich mix of silica composites. Opal jewelry may range anywhere in color from white or grey, to black. Black opals are the most valuable and widely known type of opal, because the rainbow of colors that the opal stone omits appears much more vibrant when standing-out against the backdrop of a darker stone. Black opals are unique and very expensive. This is because they can only be found in one location in all of the world. The place is called Lightning Ridge, and it is in Northern New South Wales. This miners' dream is home to hundreds of millions of dollars worth of precious black opal stones--stone's whose net worth value can be priced at such exponential rates as up to $15,000 per carat.

Where does Opal come from?

Since the late 19th Century, Australia has been the number one country in opal export and production, contributing more than ninety percent of the global output. Opal of differing qualities occurs in over twenty other countries, and is particularly indigenous to Zambia, Ethiopia, Peru, Indonesia, New South Wales, New Zealand, Brazil, and Mexico.

What makes Opal Jewelry so Special?

Opal, whose colors changed with every shift of light, was rarer than pearls and diamonds, and destined to be the most common gem to be associated with the reflection of one's innermost desires and dreams. Early races believed that the opal stone possessed mystical energies that would enable its wearer to see the future. Opal jewelry is said to carry within it an innate sense of magic, and obtain the powers of prophetic insight and understanding for its wearer. Opal's beautifully reflecting and ever-changing spectral hues were believed to be a powerful and potent charm which allowed one to let go of their inhibitions and encouraged spontaneity. Opal jewelry is also rumored to aid in obtaining clarity. The opal, which looks different at every angle from which the stone is viewed, is said to have the power to amplify and mirror internal feelings, buried emotions, and desires. According to ancient Arabian folklore, the opal stone descended from heaven in powerful flashes of lightning. To the Romans, opal was considered to be a token of hope and one of purity.

Colors of Opal Jewelry

The truly unique thing about opal is that it displays all the colors of the color spectrum in a so-called "play of color," that results from the diffraction of light when passing through the tiny silica spheres that exist deep within the infrastructure of the opal. This means that the rainbow colors on the surface of the stone will move and change dramatically when you shift and rotate the stone in the palm of your hand. The value of each individual opal varies greatly in accordance with several different factors which determine its worth: such as body tone (or backdrop color), play of color, colors present, brilliance, pattern, shape, size, and cut of stone. Generally, black opal jewelry is the most highly coveted form of opal. The lighter gray and whiter body tones are more abundant in nature, and slightly less thrilling to the naked eye.

Caring For Opals - How to Care For Your Opal and Diamond Jewelry

 Opal and diamond rings are beautiful gemstones and the wonderfully luminous color play of dramatic black opals makes them a perfect choice for setting into signature pieces of diamond jewelry such as engagement rings and pendant necklaces. But diamonds are the hardest natural substance on Earth. They can be cleaned with abrasive cleaners which can scratch and mark lesser gemstones. Opals are soft and fragile. So how can you clean and care for your opal and diamond jewelry?

Because they are porous, opals readily absorb moisture and other fluids. So caring for them is different from most other fine jewelry. And like so much in life, prevention is better than cure.

Use Common Sense

The easiest and most important way to care for your opal and diamond jewelry is to prevent it from becoming heavily soiled in the first place. So make sure you wear gloves, or remove your opal and diamond ring whenever you do the gardening, take out the trash, go to the beach etc.

And do not forget common household cleaners either. Opals can be easily scratched, cracked and even lose their fire if they come into contact with harsh chemicals such as polishes and cleaning products, not to mention hairsprays, deodorants, perfume, soap, baby oil, make up and so on. Use your common sense. Treat your opals with respect and do not contaminate them with any chemical products.

Wear Them Regularly To Prevent Dehydration

Even though are porous, opals should not be kept locked away for occasional wear only! NOT wearing opal jewelry actually damages the gemstones. This is because opals contain up to 6% water, so they actually need to be exposed to trace amounts of moisture in order to preserve their structure. Opals can crack if they are allowed to dry out. However, they will absorb the necessary moisture directly from your skin, so the easiest way to prevent them from dehydration is to wear your opal and diamond jewelry regularly.

Clean Gently

Whenever your diamond and opal jewelry needs to be cleaned, do it gently. Place your piece in a bowl of clean luke warm water and agitate carefully using a specialist jewelry brush or a soft tooth brush. Take care not to leave your jewelry to soak though. Remove it and gently pat dry with a lint free cloth.

Avoid Extremes of Temperature

Opals can be damaged by rapidly changing extremes of temperature. So if you take a sauna and are moving from a hot environment to a cold one in a short space of time, remember to take off your opals ahead of time!

Store Safely

Diamonds can only be scratched by a harder diamond, although the ring settings can become scratched in contact with other jewelry. However, opals must be kept safe in a soft pouch away from damaging contact.

Opals and diamonds complement each other beautifully. Follow these tips and keep them looking that way!

The Black Opal - Simply Magnificent

 Black Opals and opal jewelry have been adored since antiquity. The Roman Pliny talks often about the magnificence of opals, and later even the great William Shakespeare had his characters discuss them. They were talking about opals and in those days the Australian black opal hadn't even been found. But today the black opal is a symbol of beauty in nature.

When people around the world talk about the magnificence of opal they are almost always talking about Australian black opal.

What are we talking about when we mean black opal? Without discussing crystalline structures and all that gemology jargon let's just think about how it compares with other types. When you look at a black opal you will see that it has a black or very dark base. It is just as if you had a glass of black paint. That's the black base that I am talking about.

Then you put in some bright colored pieces of plastic. Let's say you put in some blues and some reds and some yellows. Now we are talking about the color. Let's say you just put blues and greens in the black mix. In opalspeak we would call that blue/green on black. If the green color was the dominant color we would change it around and call it green/blue on black.

So is there one color in the black opal range which is the best and the most expensive? Yes, yes and definitely yes! When my mining partner used to tell me on the phone that today he had found some red on black then I would just say Oh my God! That meant we had sure money.

That's the top end of the opal market, red on black and it comes from almost only one place on earth the Lightning Ridge area of NSW, Australia. But any color on black is likely to fetch big bucks! As the black base gets lighter we start to decide whether we can still call it black. A dark gray stone will still often be called black but as it gets lighter we say it is for instance, blue on gray, and then when the gray and the blue start to get confused we say it is blue/gray.

Australian black opal is recognized as being the very best opal in the world and with good reason, but it is rare and becoming rarer.

Opal Jewelry -- Your Own Personal Piece of Rainbow

 Opal necklace is a magnificent gemstone whose shades encompass virtually every hue in the color spectrum. The play of color is different on every stone, and its shimmering hues gave rise to the word 'opalescent.' Because it is such an entrancing and unique gemstone, it is no wonder that opal jewelry is very popular among collectors and fashion enthusiasts.

Opal is the birthstone for October and its history is peppered with superstitions and beliefs that it caused both good luck and bad luck. In Europe, it used to be thought of as the 'official' stone of thieves and robbers. One of the greatest contributors to the myth that opal jewelry causes misfortune is a misreading of its depiction in Sir Walter Scott's 19th-century novel 'Anne of Geierstein.'

However, many cultures associate the opal with white magic and good fortune. The ancient Romans used opal jewelry as talismans and for them, it symbolized purity and hope. The ancient Greeks, on the other hand, believed that it gave the wearer the abilities to prophesy or foretell the future. It was also thought to bring luck to the wearer.

The popularity of opal jewelry is on the rise. Although it is classified as a semi-precious stone, the black opal can cost as much as a diamond. Opals can also range in price, depending on their color. Generally, red opals are the most expensive while blue opals are the least. Also, doublet or triplet opal jewelry, or a piece of opal that is sandwiched between two other materials is less expensive than solid opal pieces. Set in gold or silver, or embellished with other gemstones, there is a wide variety of opal jewelry to choose from.

Men and women throughout time have been fascinated and captured by the iridescent colors of opal jewelry. Bad or good luck notwithstanding, these multi-colored gems are worthy additions to any wardrobe. A person cannot be blamed for thinking that wearing an opal necklace, earrings, bracelet or ring is somehow just like having a piece of the rainbow close to the skin.

Tips For Shopping For Great Deals on Black Opal Jewelry Online

 Because of their small size, high value and multiple variables that can effect their value, all types of jewelry including black opal jewelry for sale can be subject to misrepresentation by their sellers. While the Internet does have its share of "rip and run" con artists that you have to always be on the look out for, there are in fact at the same time, progressive minded jewelers that understand the intrinsic value of a stellar reputation.

Thus, it is highly recommended that you focus your initial efforts in your search for black opal jewelry online to locating and making contact with reputable sellers. Black opal jewelry in particular has so many things that factor in to raise or lower its value that it is important that you have someone on the other end of the line that will be open and honest with you.

This means that of course, you should never shop from a website that does not have adequate pictures of the black opal jewelry that they are featuring for sale. The fact is that there are some great deals to be had on the Internet with regards to all types and varieties of jewelry however; there are just as many, if not more pitfalls.

Developing good business relationships takes time even on the Internet so it is advised that you be patient in this area. One thing that you can do to help you in your quest however is to visit some jewelry related topic chat rooms where you can meet and talk to like minded Internet shoppers who can give you some tips and hopefully point you in the right direction.