Collection: Opal

Hardness: 5.5–6.5 on the Mohs scale – opals are comparatively delicate and should be protected from strong impacts, scratches, and extreme temperature fluctuations.

Color: From white, black, and gray to yellow, orange, red, and brown. Particularly sought after are precious opals with an intense play-of-color, which flashes in a wide variety of spectral colors depending on the incidence of light.

Transparency: From opaque to translucent to transparent. High-quality opals are characterized in particular by an intense play-of-color, high brilliance, attractive color patterns, and uniform color distribution.

Locations: Significant deposits are found in Australia, Ethiopia, Mexico, and Brazil. Australia is particularly known for its high-quality black opals from Lightning Ridge and boulder opals from Queensland.

Due to their fascinating play of color, natural uniqueness, and the rarity of high-quality specimens, opals are considered coveted collector's items and gemstones. Australian black opals, in particular, with their intense, vibrant colors and extraordinary color patterns, fetch top prices on the international market. High-quality boulder opals and crystal opals also enjoy great popularity. Key factors for their value include the intensity and brilliance of the play of color, the color pattern, the body color, and the quality and origin of the stone. Rare top specimens are sought after by collectors worldwide and can contribute to diversification and value retention in the long term, although an increase in value is not guaranteed.

The opal is said to have an inspiring, creativity-enhancing, and emotionally strengthening effect. It is believed to promote zest for life, imagination, and self-confidence, as well as support inner balance. In traditional gem lore, the opal is considered the birthstone of the month of October and is symbolically associated with hope, love, and inspiration.