Opal Gifts Under $500

How To Buy An Opal Gift Under $500

Opal jewellery gifts under $500 offer more Australian solid opal stone options, and even solid gold settings. Solid opal is the most natural form of opal, so what you see is the stone exactly as it formed in the ground over millions of years. It’s also a little more forgiving in daily life than doublets and triplets, as you don’t need to be as mindful about exposure to water.

In this range, boulder opal comes into the mix, dainty 9ct and 14ct gold pendants set with sold opals feature, and larger triplet opal earrings and statement pendants appear. Solid opal bracelets in silver and gold plated silver set with three or five stones are also a popular choice in this price bracket.

How To Choose A Solid Opal Gift

When we select Australian opals, we look at five things. You can use the same checklist:

1. Brightness: how strongly the colour flashes as the stone moves.
2. Colour: red is the rarest, blue and green the most common. Choose the colours that suit her.
3. Pattern: the way the colour is arranged, from tiny flecks to broad flashes.
4. Body tone: the background colour, from light (white opal) to dark (black opal).
5. Cut: an even dome with no visible cracks.

Quick Facts

Under $500 Opal Gifts FAQs

What's the difference between solid and doublet opal?

Solid opal is one natural piece of opal. A doublet is a thin slice of opal backed with a dark layer. Both are genuine, but solid opal is more valuable and can get wet.

Can solid opal be worn every day?

Yes, with sensible care. Remove jewellery for gardening, the gym and cleaning, and avoid knocks against hard surfaces.

Which opal colours are most valuable?

Red is the rarest and usually the most valued. For a gift, though, the best colour is the one she'll love.

Is opal good for an anniversary gift?

Yes. Opal is the traditional gift for a 14th wedding anniversary and makes a meaningful choice for any milestone.

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