Most Expensive Opal: The Record-Setting Stones Explained
The most expensive opal ever found, from Olympic Australis to Aurora Australis, and what actually sets the price of the opal you can buy.
value and pricing
What pieces are worth and the factors that drive gemstone prices.
Black Opal Price: What Actually Sets the Value
What actually sets black opal price: body tone, brightness, pattern, and color, explained by a goldsmith who cuts the stones himself.
Cat Eye Opal: What Makes It Show That Line of Light
What causes cat eye opal’s chatoyant line, why it shows up in common opal, and how Peruvian and chocolate opal trade names fit in. A jeweler’s guide.
Aurora Opal, Galaxy Opal, Rainbow Opal: What the Names Mean
Aurora opal, galaxy opal and rainbow opal are not official grades. A goldsmith explains what sellers really mean and how to tell if it is real opal.
Pink Opal and Purple Opal: What They Really Are
Pink opal and purple opal explained: the real Peruvian stone, how red opal differs, and what Mexican purple opal actually means.
Blue Opal: Peruvian Stone vs Blue Play-of-Color
Blue opal explained: how Peruvian blue opal differs from precious opal with blue play-of-color, plus meaning and how each wears in a ring or necklace.
Dark Opal and the Opal Body Tone Scale
Dark opal explained: how it differs from black opal on the N1 to N9 body tone scale, and what that means for value, setting, and wear.
How Much Is Opal Worth? A Jeweler’s Guide to Opal Value
How much is opal worth? A jeweler explains the factors that set opal value, rough price ranges by type, and how to avoid overpaying.
What Is an Abalone Pearl? A Guide to a Rare Natural Gem
What is an abalone pearl, why is it so rare, and how do you care for one? A jeweler of 50 years explains these wild California gems and how to wear them.