Our Ultimate Opal Jewellery Guide
Discover the timeless beauty of authentic Australian opal jewellery at Black Star Opal. With over 50 years of experience in the opal industry, we hand-select or design every piece in collaboration with expert artisan jewellers, using opals sourced directly from our network of trusted miners. From the bold brilliance of Lightning Ridge black opals to the soft glow of Coober Pedy white opals, our collection is designed to be worn, admired and treasured.
About Opal Gemstones
Opal has long captivated jewellery lovers with its shifting...
Read More
Our Ultimate Opal Jewellery Guide
Discover the timeless beauty of authentic Australian opal jewellery at Black Star Opal. With over 50 years of experience in the opal industry, we hand-select or design every piece in collaboration with expert artisan jewellers, using opals sourced directly from our network of trusted miners. From the bold brilliance of Lightning Ridge black opals to the soft glow of Coober Pedy white opals, our collection is designed to be worn, admired and treasured.
About Opal Gemstones
Opal has long captivated jewellery lovers with its shifting rainbow hues and ethereal glow. Unlike traditional single-colour gems like diamonds or sapphires, opal’s vibrant play-of-colour ensures no two stones are ever the same—offering a truly one-of-a-kind product. Steeped in symbolism, they have been treasured by collectors and wearers around the world for centuries.
Ancient Romans linked opals to hope and purity, while the Greeks believed they held prophetic powers. In Aboriginal Dreamtime stories, they formed where the Creator touched the land, leaving behind fire-infused stones as a sacred gift. Major discoveries in Lightning Ridge, Coober Pedy and Queensland in the 1800s cemented Australia as the global leader in opal. Today, opal is celebrated for its rarity, quality and brilliance—widely regarded by jewellers and gem experts as the standard for premium gemstones.
Types of Opal
Each opal found in our jewellery collections has its own unique characteristics and appeal. At Black Star Opal, we showcase jewelry set with:
Black Opal
Featuring a dark body tone that amplifies rich and vivid colours and patterns, these rare stones are highly prized and sourced from Lightning Ridge, NSW. Their rich backgrounds make the colour bursts appear more vivid and dramatic, perfect for black opal jewelry.
White Opal
Known for their pale or milky body colour, these gems showcase soft, shimmering pastel hues. They offer a more subtle, ethereal beauty and are often used in elegant, refined white opal jewellery designs.
Crystal Opal
Featuring transparent or semi-transparent body tones, they display exceptional brightness and clarity. Their luminous appearance allows for an incredible depth of colour, making them highly desirable in fine crystal opal pieces.
Boulder Opal
These opals are found in Queensland and are naturally embedded in ironstone. Jewellery set with boulder opals exhibit striking patterns and earthy hues, combining the gem and host rock in one mesmerising stone.
Doublet and Triplet Opal
These layered stones offer vibrant play-of-colour at a more accessible price point, making them a popular choice for budget-friendly jewellery. Doublets consist of an opal layer bonded to a dark backing, intensifying the stone’s colour, while triplets add a protective transparent cap on top for extra durability and brilliance.
Why Opal Is Perfect For Jewelry
Opal is truly unique, making opal jewellery a standout choice for those seeking something meaningful and personal. Whether it’s a rare black opal ring with vivid flashes of red, yellow and green, or a gold-set crystal opal pendant glowing with neon pinks and blues, each piece reflects the individuality of its wearer. Although opal is softer than many other gemstones, with proper setting and care, it can be worn and treasured for generations. At Black Star Opal, we draw on decades of hands-on experience sourcing, designing and curating Australian opals to ensure lasting beauty and quality in every piece.
Australia Jewellery Styles You’ll Love
Each piece we offer is thoughtfully crafted to celebrate the opal’s unique beauty—and often you'll find them accompanied by dazzling white diamonds for extra 'bling'. Our team of skilled designers carefully select and set every stone to let its natural brilliance shine. Choose from:
Opal Rings
From dainty stackable bands to bold cocktail designs, these rings suit every style. Our selection includes elegant gold bands featuring white, crystal and black opal, engagement rings, and more for men and women.
Opal Necklaces and Pendants
These versatile pieces make stunning everyday accessories or standout gifts. Shop gold opal necklaces, black opal pendants, and gemstone clusters with diamond details.
Opal Earrings
Add a touch of shimmer to your look with our range of elegant earrings including studs, drops and hoops. Popular styles include gold earrings, crystal opal dangles, and simple bezel-set studs.
Opal Bracelets
Unique and stylish, thesebracelets offer a touch of brilliance to any outfit. Discover pieces with multiple gemstones, sparkling crystal accents or minimalist modern design.
Why Opal Jewelry is Trending
With its vibrant colours, unique patterns and rich symbolism, it's easy to see why the 'Queen of Gems' captivates fashion lovers worldwide. Here are five reasons why this timeless gemstone is in the spotlight:
Colourful and Unique
Celebrated for their dazzling play-of-colour, natural patterns and distinct gem characteristics, each piece is truly one of a kind.
Symbolic and Lucky
Historically prized for their spiritual meaning, opals are believed to inspire hope, love and self-expression—and are considered one of the luckiest gemstones.
Versatile and Sophisticated
Whether worn casually or with formal attire, jewellery set with opal adds instant elegance. Its rainbow hues pair beautifully with a wide range of styles.
Effortlessly Chic
For lovers of understated luxury, these gems shine with natural brilliance both day and night—offering a refined, easy-to-wear look.
Affordable Luxury
Australian opals offer beauty across every budget—from under $100 to premium gold designs, making luxury more accessible than ever.
Opal Jewelry FAQs
1. What is opal jewelry?
Opal jewellery features real gemstones known for their vibrant play-of-colour—a shimmering rainbow effect unique to opals. These pieces can include rings, earrings, pendants, bracelets and more, set in gold, silver or gold plated silver.
2. Is opal a good choice for everyday jewelry?
While these Australian gems are softer than diamonds or sapphires (5.5–6.5 on the Mohs scale), many people wear their jewelry daily with care. For extra security, choose protective bezel settings and remove your jewelry during high-impact activities to preserve its beauty.
3. Why is Australian opal so special?
Australia produces over 90% of the world’s precious opal, including the finest black, white, crystal and boulder stones. Known for their superior brightness, durability and colour range, these gemstones are the benchmark for high-quality jewelry designs.
4. What are the different types of opals used in jewelry?
The main types include black, white, crystal and boulder opal. You might also see doublets and triplets, which are layered stones designed to enhance colour, body tone and affordability.
5. How can I tell if my opal is real?
Genuine opals display natural, irregular patterns and depth of colour; they also feel cooler to the touch. Lab-created or synthetic stones often often show uniform colour patches and a ‘snake-skin’ pattern. Buying from a reputable seller like Black Star Opal helps ensure authenticity.
6. Is opal jewelry valuable?
Yes, high-quality opal jewelry can be highly valuable, especially pieces featuring rare black stones. We have numerous premium pieces in our collection and specialise in rare Lightning Ridge gems. Value is determined by colour vibrancy, pattern, origin, clarity, and craftsmanship and metal type of the jewelry setting.
7. Can opal be used in engagement rings?
Absolutely—engagement rings set with opal are growing in popularity for their uniqueness and symbolism, and we sell them every day to couples looking for unique gemstone options. If opting for one, choose a secure setting and be mindful of care, as these gems are more delicate than traditional engagement stones.
8. How should I clean opal jewelry?
In our experience, the best way is to gently clean with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Take care to avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or extreme temperature changes. For solid stones, a damp cloth is safe; for doublets or triplets, avoid prolonged water exposure.
9. Can opal jewelry get wet?
Solid opals can handle contact with water (in fact many miners can store their stones in water), but avoid soaking or submerging doublets and triplets, which are more sensitive to water and moisture. This can result in separation or cloudiness.
10. What does opal symbolize?
Opal has long been associated with inspiration, love and hope. Many cultures consider it a stone of good luck and emotional healing, making it a meaningful gift for birthdays, anniversaries, or personal milestones. It is also the October birthstone and is associated with the 14th wedding anniversary.
How to Buy Jewellery Online With Confidence
Shopping online can be a rewarding experience when you know what to look for. We have thousands of customers buying from us each year, as they have confidence in Black Star Opal as the most trusted source of Australian opal jewellery. We always provide detailed product descriptions, genuine images and transparency about the stone's origin, in addition to secure payment options, clear return policies and linked customer reviews to ensure a safe purchase. Our free global shipping, gemstone and jewellery certification, and personalised service will also help you shop with confidence.
Why Shop For Opal Jewelry With Black Star Opal?
As one of the industry's most respected names, Black Star Opal is known for quality and reliability, offering a beautifully curated jewellery collection to suit every style and occasion. Originally miners and exporters of Lightning Ridge opal, since 1969 we’ve grown to include our retail store, The Opal Centre at the Big Banana in Coffs Harbour, and our global online boutique offering the biggest range of opal stones and accessories.
Our jewellery is 100% natural and ethically sourced from trusted miners who use sustainable practices to protect the land. You’ll always get exactly what you pay for, with honest pricing and value for money as our top priority. We sell opal jewellery all around the world including in Australia, the United States of America, Canada, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Japan and into Europe including France, Germany, Poland and more. Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information when making your purchase.
Read Less
Our Ultimate Opal Jewellery Guide
Discover the timeless beauty of authentic Australian opal jewellery at Black Star Opal. With over 50 years of experience in the opal industry, we hand-select or design every piece in collaboration with expert artisan jewellers, using opals sourced directly from our network of trusted miners. From the bold brilliance of Lightning Ridge black opals to the soft glow of Coober Pedy white opals, our collection is designed to be worn, admired and treasured.
About Opal Gemstones
Opal has long captivated jewellery lovers with its shifting rainbow hues and ethereal glow. Unlike traditional single-colour gems like diamonds or sapphires, opal’s vibrant play-of-colour ensures no two stones are ever the same—offering a truly one-of-a-kind product. Steeped in symbolism, they have been treasured by collectors and wearers around the world for centuries.
Ancient Romans linked opals to hope and purity, while the Greeks believed they held prophetic powers. In Aboriginal Dreamtime stories, they formed where the Creator touched the land, leaving behind fire-infused stones as a sacred gift. Major discoveries in Lightning Ridge, Coober Pedy and Queensland in the 1800s cemented Australia as the global leader in opal. Today, opal is celebrated for its rarity, quality and brilliance—widely regarded by jewellers and gem experts as the standard for premium gemstones.
Types of Opal
Each opal found in our jewellery collections has its own unique characteristics and appeal. At Black Star Opal, we showcase jewelry set with:
Black Opal
Featuring a dark body tone that amplifies rich and vivid colours and patterns, these rare stones are highly prized and sourced from Lightning Ridge, NSW. Their rich backgrounds make the colour bursts appear more vivid and dramatic, perfect for black opal jewelry.
White Opal
Known for their pale or milky body colour, these gems showcase soft, shimmering pastel hues. They offer a more subtle, ethereal beauty and are often used in elegant, refined white opal jewellery designs.
Crystal Opal
Featuring transparent or semi-transparent body tones, they display exceptional brightness and clarity. Their luminous appearance allows for an incredible depth of colour, making them highly desirable in fine crystal opal pieces.
Boulder Opal
These opals are found in Queensland and are naturally embedded in ironstone. Jewellery set with boulder opals exhibit striking patterns and earthy hues, combining the gem and host rock in one mesmerising stone.
Doublet and Triplet Opal
These layered stones offer vibrant play-of-colour at a more accessible price point, making them a popular choice for budget-friendly jewellery. Doublets consist of an opal layer bonded to a dark backing, intensifying the stone’s colour, while triplets add a protective transparent cap on top for extra durability and brilliance.
Why Opal Is Perfect For Jewelry
Opal is truly unique, making opal jewellery a standout choice for those seeking something meaningful and personal. Whether it’s a rare black opal ring with vivid flashes of red, yellow and green, or a gold-set crystal opal pendant glowing with neon pinks and blues, each piece reflects the individuality of its wearer. Although opal is softer than many other gemstones, with proper setting and care, it can be worn and treasured for generations. At Black Star Opal, we draw on decades of hands-on experience sourcing, designing and curating Australian opals to ensure lasting beauty and quality in every piece.
Australia Jewellery Styles You’ll Love
Each piece we offer is thoughtfully crafted to celebrate the opal’s unique beauty—and often you'll find them accompanied by dazzling white diamonds for extra 'bling'. Our team of skilled designers carefully select and set every stone to let its natural brilliance shine. Choose from:
Opal Rings
From dainty stackable bands to bold cocktail designs, these rings suit every style. Our selection includes elegant gold bands featuring white, crystal and black opal, engagement rings, and more for men and women.
Opal Necklaces and Pendants
These versatile pieces make stunning everyday accessories or standout gifts. Shop gold opal necklaces, black opal pendants, and gemstone clusters with diamond details.
Opal Earrings
Add a touch of shimmer to your look with our range of elegant earrings including studs, drops and hoops. Popular styles include gold earrings, crystal opal dangles, and simple bezel-set studs.
Opal Bracelets
Unique and stylish, thesebracelets offer a touch of brilliance to any outfit. Discover pieces with multiple gemstones, sparkling crystal accents or minimalist modern design.
Why Opal Jewelry is Trending
With its vibrant colours, unique patterns and rich symbolism, it's easy to see why the 'Queen of Gems' captivates fashion lovers worldwide. Here are five reasons why this timeless gemstone is in the spotlight:
Colourful and Unique
Celebrated for their dazzling play-of-colour, natural patterns and distinct gem characteristics, each piece is truly one of a kind.
Symbolic and Lucky
Historically prized for their spiritual meaning, opals are believed to inspire hope, love and self-expression—and are considered one of the luckiest gemstones.
Versatile and Sophisticated
Whether worn casually or with formal attire, jewellery set with opal adds instant elegance. Its rainbow hues pair beautifully with a wide range of styles.
Effortlessly Chic
For lovers of understated luxury, these gems shine with natural brilliance both day and night—offering a refined, easy-to-wear look.
Affordable Luxury
Australian opals offer beauty across every budget—from under $100 to premium gold designs, making luxury more accessible than ever.
Opal Jewelry FAQs
1. What is opal jewelry?
Opal jewellery features real gemstones known for their vibrant play-of-colour—a shimmering rainbow effect unique to opals. These pieces can include rings, earrings, pendants, bracelets and more, set in gold, silver or gold plated silver.
2. Is opal a good choice for everyday jewelry?
While these Australian gems are softer than diamonds or sapphires (5.5–6.5 on the Mohs scale), many people wear their jewelry daily with care. For extra security, choose protective bezel settings and remove your jewelry during high-impact activities to preserve its beauty.
3. Why is Australian opal so special?
Australia produces over 90% of the world’s precious opal, including the finest black, white, crystal and boulder stones. Known for their superior brightness, durability and colour range, these gemstones are the benchmark for high-quality jewelry designs.
4. What are the different types of opals used in jewelry?
The main types include black, white, crystal and boulder opal. You might also see doublets and triplets, which are layered stones designed to enhance colour, body tone and affordability.
5. How can I tell if my opal is real?
Genuine opals display natural, irregular patterns and depth of colour; they also feel cooler to the touch. Lab-created or synthetic stones often often show uniform colour patches and a ‘snake-skin’ pattern. Buying from a reputable seller like Black Star Opal helps ensure authenticity.
6. Is opal jewelry valuable?
Yes, high-quality opal jewelry can be highly valuable, especially pieces featuring rare black stones. We have numerous premium pieces in our collection and specialise in rare Lightning Ridge gems. Value is determined by colour vibrancy, pattern, origin, clarity, and craftsmanship and metal type of the jewelry setting.
7. Can opal be used in engagement rings?
Absolutely—engagement rings set with opal are growing in popularity for their uniqueness and symbolism, and we sell them every day to couples looking for unique gemstone options. If opting for one, choose a secure setting and be mindful of care, as these gems are more delicate than traditional engagement stones.
8. How should I clean opal jewelry?
In our experience, the best way is to gently clean with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Take care to avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or extreme temperature changes. For solid stones, a damp cloth is safe; for doublets or triplets, avoid prolonged water exposure.
9. Can opal jewelry get wet?
Solid opals can handle contact with water (in fact many miners can store their stones in water), but avoid soaking or submerging doublets and triplets, which are more sensitive to water and moisture. This can result in separation or cloudiness.
10. What does opal symbolize?
Opal has long been associated with inspiration, love and hope. Many cultures consider it a stone of good luck and emotional healing, making it a meaningful gift for birthdays, anniversaries, or personal milestones. It is also the October birthstone and is associated with the 14th wedding anniversary.
How to Buy Jewellery Online With Confidence
Shopping online can be a rewarding experience when you know what to look for. We have thousands of customers buying from us each year, as they have confidence in Black Star Opal as the most trusted source of Australian opal jewellery. We always provide detailed product descriptions, genuine images and transparency about the stone's origin, in addition to secure payment options, clear return policies and linked customer reviews to ensure a safe purchase. Our free global shipping, gemstone and jewellery certification, and personalised service will also help you shop with confidence.
Why Shop For Opal Jewelry With Black Star Opal?
As one of the industry's most respected names, Black Star Opal is known for quality and reliability, offering a beautifully curated jewellery collection to suit every style and occasion. Originally miners and exporters of Lightning Ridge opal, since 1969 we’ve grown to include our retail store, The Opal Centre at the Big Banana in Coffs Harbour, and our global online boutique offering the biggest range of opal stones and accessories.
Our jewellery is 100% natural and ethically sourced from trusted miners who use sustainable practices to protect the land. You’ll always get exactly what you pay for, with honest pricing and value for money as our top priority. We sell opal jewellery all around the world including in Australia, the United States of America, Canada, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Japan and into Europe including France, Germany, Poland and more. Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information when making your purchase.
Read Less 
