Opal Jewellery

Opal Jewelry Guide: How to Choose the Right One

There’s nothing quite like the magic of Australian opal. Each piece we offer is hand-selected for its unique colour, pattern and character—no two are ever the same. At Black Star Opal, we’ve spent decades working directly with miners and master jewellers to bring you opal jewellery that’s not only of the highest quality and ethically sourced, but thoughtfully crafted to highlight the gem’s natural brilliance. From the striking fire of Read More

Opal Jewelry Guide: How to Choose the Right One

There’s nothing quite like the magic of Australian opal. Each piece we offer is hand-selected for its unique colour, pattern and character—no two are ever the same. At Black Star Opal, we’ve spent decades working directly with miners and master jewellers to bring you opal jewellery that’s not only of the highest quality and ethically sourced, but thoughtfully crafted to highlight the gem’s natural brilliance. From the striking fire of Lightning Ridge black opal to the soft glow of crystal and white opals, every stone in our collection is chosen for its beauty and set with care in high-quality gold or silver. 

A Brief History of Opal Gemstones

Opal has long enchanted wearers with its shifting rainbow colours and ethereal glow. Unlike any other gemstone, its signature play-of-colour makes every opal one-of-a-kind—offering a breathtaking alternative to traditional gems like diamonds and sapphires. For centuries, this mystical stone has been a symbol of beauty, creativity and emotional depth, treasured by collectors and jewellery lovers alike.

Its legacy spans cultures and time. Ancient Romans saw opals as a sign of hope and purity, while Greeks believed they held the power of prophecy. In Australian Aboriginal Dreamtime stories, opals were said to form where the Creator touched the land, leaving behind fire-infused stones as a gift. With the rise of the Australian opal industry in the 1800s—sparked by major discoveries in Lightning Ridge, Coober Pedy and Queensland—Australia became the global home of the world’s finest opals, celebrated today for their rarity, brilliance and cultural heritage.

Why Opal Is Perfect For Jewellery

Opal is unlike any other gemstone, making it the perfect choice for meaningful, standout jewellery. Its dazzling colour and organic, one-of-a-kind patterns make each piece feel deeply personal—no two opals are ever the same. Whether it's a black opal ring flashing with vivid reds and greens or a crystal opal pendant shimmering with light blues and purples, opal jewellery brings a sense of individuality and magic to any collection. Thousands of our customers each year fall in love with this extraordinary gem, choosing opal to mark life’s most special moments—from engagements and anniversaries to birthdays and personal milestones.

Wearing opal isn’t just about beauty—it’s about embracing a gemstone that reflects your uniqueness and values. Our opals are 100% natural and ethically sourced from trusted Australian miners who use sustainable practices to protect the land. With its rarity, opal is considered one of the world’s most precious gems, yet it remains versatile enough to be worn every day. It’s a gem that connects you to nature, to history, and to a long tradition of craftsmanship—offering not just sparkle, but meaning.

Why Is Opal Jewelry Unique

Australian opal jewellery is recognised globally for its quality, authenticity and craftsmanship. What makes opal jewellery truly unique is its natural 'play-of-colour.' This mesmerising optical effect, caused by light refracting through tiny silica spheres within the gemstone, creates a dazzling spectrum of colours that shifts with movement and light.

From soft pastel hues of pink, blue, and green to vibrant flashes of red, orange, and purple, precious opals found in jewellery come in an array of colours. The most coveted are black opals from Lightning Ridge, which feature a dark body tone that enhances the brilliance of their colour play. Whether you prefer the soft glow of white opals or the earthy beauty of boulder opals, there’s a perfect opal for every piece of jewelry.

Types of Australian Opal In Jewelry

Each type of opal found in our opal jewelry collection has its own unique characteristics and charm. At Black Star Opal, our collection includes:

Black Opal Jewelry

Featuring opals with a dark body tone that amplifies their colour play, black opals are highly prized and sourced mainly from Lightning Ridge, NSW. Their rich backgrounds make the colour bursts appear more vivid and dramatic, perfect for black opal jewellery.

White Opal Jewelry

Known for their pale or milky body colour, white opals 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 Jewelry

Transparent or semi-transparent opals that display exceptional brightness and clarity. Their luminous appearance allows for an incredible depth of colour, making them highly desirable in fine crystal opal jewellery.

Boulder Opal Jewelry

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 opal and host rock in one mesmerising stone.

Australian Opal Jewellery Styles You’ll Love

Opal jewellery is treasured worldwide for its vibrant beauty, rarity and versatility. Each piece we offer is thoughtfully handcrafted to celebrate the opal’s unique charm—whether it’s the shifting colours in an elegant ring, the glow of a pendant, or the detail of a finely made bracelet. Our skilled designers carefully select and set every opal to let its natural brilliance shine. Whether you're in Australia or ordering from across the globe, you can shop our stunning range of genuine Australian opal jewellery online—delivered safely to your door. Choose from:

Opal Rings

From dainty stackable bands to bold cocktail rings, opal rings suit every style. Our selection includes white opal rings, black opal rings, opal wedding rings, and more for men and women.

Opal Necklaces and Pendants

These versatile opal pieces make stunning everyday accessories or standout gifts. Shop white opal gold 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 opal earrings including studs, drops and hoops. Popular styles include white opal gold earrings, crystal opal dangles, and simple bezel-set studs.

Opal Bracelets

Unique and stylish, opal bracelets offer a touch of brilliance to any outfit. Discover pieces with multiple opals, mixed metals, or minimalist modern design.

How to Buy Opal Jewellery Online

Buying opal jewellery online can be a rewarding experience when you know what to look for. Start by choosing a reputable retailer that specialises in Australian opals and provides detailed product descriptions, clear images and transparency about the opal’s origin. Understanding the different types of opals—such as black, white, boulder and crystal—as well as doublets and triplets, can also help you select a piece that matches your personal style and budget.

Always check for secure payment options, return policies and customer reviews to ensure a safe and satisfying purchase. It's also helpful to compare opal jewellery prices across similar styles to gauge value. Many reputable online stores offer free worldwide shipping, certified gemstones and expert customer service to guide you through the buying process. With the right knowledge and a trusted source, you can confidently purchase a one-of-a-kind opal jewellery piece from the comfort of your home.

Five Reasons Why Opal Jewellery is Trending

Opal jewellery is making waves as the must-have accessory of today. With its vibrant colours, unique designs and rich symbolism, it's easy to see why this type of accessory is captivating fashion lovers worldwide. Here are five reasons why this timeless gemstone is in the spotlight:

Colourful and Unique

Opals are renowned for their dazzling play of colour, displaying a spectrum of hues like blue, green, pink, orange, and rare fiery reds. Each opal is unique, featuring natural patterns and vibrant colours that make every piece of opal jewellery truly one of a kind. Whether it’s an opal ring or a pendant, no two stones are alike, offering a distinctive and personal touch.

Symbolic and Lucky

Historically revered for their spiritual significance, opal gemstones are said to promote hope, love, and self-expression. Ancient Greeks and Romans even believed opals were divine. Despite outdated myths, opals are considered one of the luckiest gemstones, making opal jewellery a meaningful and powerful choice.

Versatile and Sophisticated

The versatility of opal jewellery is unmatched. Whether paired with a casual outfit or formal attire, opals effortlessly elevate any look. Their rainbow hues complement various styles, and their timeless charm ensures they remain a fashion staple across generations.

Effortlessly Chic

For those seeking understated elegance, opal jewellery delivers. Its natural brilliance shines both day and night, offering an effortlessly chic aesthetic. Whether you prefer classic white opals or the bold allure of black opals, wearing opals lets you make a statement with sophistication.

Affordable Luxury

Unlike other gemstones, opal jewellery offers luxury at various price points. From budget-friendly options under $100 to premium gold and platinum designs, there’s an opal piece for every budget. With its unique beauty and value, opals provide an accessible way to own high-quality, real gemstone jewellery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Opal Jewelry

What makes Australian opal jewellery so special?

Australian opals are considered the world’s finest due to their vibrant play-of-colour, rarity and durability. Ethically sourced from mines in Lightning Ridge, Coober Pedy, and Queensland, each gemstone is one-of-a-kind and highly valued in fine jewellery.

Is opal jewellery suitable for everyday wear?

Yes, but with care. While opals are durable, they are softer than diamonds or sapphires. It's best to remove your opal jewellery during heavy physical activity, and to store it separately from harder gemstones. If gifting opal, it may be better to opt for an opal necklace or opal earrings which typically experience less wear and tear.

What types of opal are used in jewellery?

Jewellery may feature several types of Australian opals, including black opal, white opal, crystal opal, boulder opal, doublets, and triplets. Each type has unique colour patterns and value.

Is opal a good gift for October birthdays?

Absolutely! Opal is the official birthstone for October and symbolizes love, creativity, and inspiration. An opal ring, pendant, or earrings make a thoughtful and meaningful October birthday gift.

How do I care for my opal jewellery?

To keep your opal jewellery looking its best, avoid exposure to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures. Clean gently with a soft cloth and mild soap, and store it in a padded jewellery box. Read our full Opal Care Guide here.

Are opals in jewellery ethically sourced?

Yes. At reputable retailers, Australian opals are sourced directly from responsible mines that follow ethical and sustainable practices. Always check that your opal jewellery comes with authenticity guarantees.

Can opal rings be resized?

Many opal rings can be resized, but it depends on the setting and design. It’s best to consult with your jeweller or the store’s customer service team before resizing, as opals require delicate handling.

Is opal and diamond jewellery popular?

Yes! Opal and diamond jewellery is a timeless favourite, combining the vibrant play-of-colour of opals with the brilliance of diamonds. This striking contrast creates elegant pieces perfect for special occasions like engagements, anniversaries, and milestone birthdays. The mix of opal’s natural beauty with diamond sparkle makes these pieces uniquely luxurious and meaningful.

Why Buy Opal Jewellery from Black Star Opal?

Choosing the perfect piece of opal jewellery is a meaningful and personal decision. At Black Star Opal, we’re proud to be one of the most trusted names in the industry, offering a carefully curated collection of fine Australian opal jewellery to suit every style and occasion. From vibrant opal rings to elegant pendants and earrings, each piece is crafted to showcase the natural brilliance of this extraordinary gemstone—at a price that offers genuine value.

With roots deep in the Australian opal industry since 1969, Black Star Opal is a multi-generational family business founded on a passion for this rare and remarkable stone. Originally miners and exporters of Lightning Ridge opal, we’ve grown to include our retail store, The Opal Centre at the Big Banana in Coffs Harbour, and a global online boutique. Thanks to our close ties with miners in Lightning Ridge, Coober Pedy and Queensland, we’re able to ethically source our opals straight from the earth—ensuring unmatched quality and competitive pricing, without compromise.

Opal Jewelry Delivery Information

At Black Star Opal, we are committed to delivering your opal jewellery safely, securely and on time—no matter where you are in the world. All orders are carefully packaged and shipped at no cost from Australia with full insurance for peace of mind.

Free Worldwide Delivery: Whether you're in the USA, UK, Europe or elsewhere, we ship globally with tracking included.

Fast, Secure Shipping: We free global express delivery for all purchases over AUD$1500 with orders valued under this offered express shipping for a small fee.

Fully Insured Parcels: Every order is insured from our door to yours, ensuring your opal jewellery arrives safely and in perfect condition.

Quick Order Processing Time: Most in-stock items ship on the same day (except weekends). You’ll receive a tracking number as soon as your parcel is on its way.

Eco-Friendly Packaging: Our packaging is designed to protect your jewellery while minimising environmental impact.

Your satisfaction is our priority. If you have any questions about shipping, customs or delivery times, please feel free to contact us and we’ll be happy to help.

Read Less

Opal Jewelry Guide: How to Choose the Right One

There’s nothing quite like the magic of Australian opal. Each piece we offer is hand-selected for its unique colour, pattern and character—no two are ever the same. At Black Star Opal, we’ve spent decades working directly with miners and master jewellers to bring you opal jewellery that’s not only of the highest quality and ethically sourced, but thoughtfully crafted to highlight the gem’s natural brilliance. From the striking fire of Lightning Ridge black opal to the soft glow of crystal and white opals, every stone in our collection is chosen for its beauty and set with care in high-quality gold or silver. 

A Brief History of Opal Gemstones

Opal has long enchanted wearers with its shifting rainbow colours and ethereal glow. Unlike any other gemstone, its signature play-of-colour makes every opal one-of-a-kind—offering a breathtaking alternative to traditional gems like diamonds and sapphires. For centuries, this mystical stone has been a symbol of beauty, creativity and emotional depth, treasured by collectors and jewellery lovers alike.

Its legacy spans cultures and time. Ancient Romans saw opals as a sign of hope and purity, while Greeks believed they held the power of prophecy. In Australian Aboriginal Dreamtime stories, opals were said to form where the Creator touched the land, leaving behind fire-infused stones as a gift. With the rise of the Australian opal industry in the 1800s—sparked by major discoveries in Lightning Ridge, Coober Pedy and Queensland—Australia became the global home of the world’s finest opals, celebrated today for their rarity, brilliance and cultural heritage.

Why Opal Is Perfect For Jewellery

Opal is unlike any other gemstone, making it the perfect choice for meaningful, standout jewellery. Its dazzling colour and organic, one-of-a-kind patterns make each piece feel deeply personal—no two opals are ever the same. Whether it's a black opal ring flashing with vivid reds and greens or a crystal opal pendant shimmering with light blues and purples, opal jewellery brings a sense of individuality and magic to any collection. Thousands of our customers each year fall in love with this extraordinary gem, choosing opal to mark life’s most special moments—from engagements and anniversaries to birthdays and personal milestones.

Wearing opal isn’t just about beauty—it’s about embracing a gemstone that reflects your uniqueness and values. Our opals are 100% natural and ethically sourced from trusted Australian miners who use sustainable practices to protect the land. With its rarity, opal is considered one of the world’s most precious gems, yet it remains versatile enough to be worn every day. It’s a gem that connects you to nature, to history, and to a long tradition of craftsmanship—offering not just sparkle, but meaning.

Why Is Opal Jewelry Unique

Australian opal jewellery is recognised globally for its quality, authenticity and craftsmanship. What makes opal jewellery truly unique is its natural 'play-of-colour.' This mesmerising optical effect, caused by light refracting through tiny silica spheres within the gemstone, creates a dazzling spectrum of colours that shifts with movement and light.

From soft pastel hues of pink, blue, and green to vibrant flashes of red, orange, and purple, precious opals found in jewellery come in an array of colours. The most coveted are black opals from Lightning Ridge, which feature a dark body tone that enhances the brilliance of their colour play. Whether you prefer the soft glow of white opals or the earthy beauty of boulder opals, there’s a perfect opal for every piece of jewelry.

Types of Australian Opal In Jewelry

Each type of opal found in our opal jewelry collection has its own unique characteristics and charm. At Black Star Opal, our collection includes:

Black Opal Jewelry

Featuring opals with a dark body tone that amplifies their colour play, black opals are highly prized and sourced mainly from Lightning Ridge, NSW. Their rich backgrounds make the colour bursts appear more vivid and dramatic, perfect for black opal jewellery.

White Opal Jewelry

Known for their pale or milky body colour, white opals 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 Jewelry

Transparent or semi-transparent opals that display exceptional brightness and clarity. Their luminous appearance allows for an incredible depth of colour, making them highly desirable in fine crystal opal jewellery.

Boulder Opal Jewelry

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 opal and host rock in one mesmerising stone.

Australian Opal Jewellery Styles You’ll Love

Opal jewellery is treasured worldwide for its vibrant beauty, rarity and versatility. Each piece we offer is thoughtfully handcrafted to celebrate the opal’s unique charm—whether it’s the shifting colours in an elegant ring, the glow of a pendant, or the detail of a finely made bracelet. Our skilled designers carefully select and set every opal to let its natural brilliance shine. Whether you're in Australia or ordering from across the globe, you can shop our stunning range of genuine Australian opal jewellery online—delivered safely to your door. Choose from:

Opal Rings

From dainty stackable bands to bold cocktail rings, opal rings suit every style. Our selection includes white opal rings, black opal rings, opal wedding rings, and more for men and women.

Opal Necklaces and Pendants

These versatile opal pieces make stunning everyday accessories or standout gifts. Shop white opal gold 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 opal earrings including studs, drops and hoops. Popular styles include white opal gold earrings, crystal opal dangles, and simple bezel-set studs.

Opal Bracelets

Unique and stylish, opal bracelets offer a touch of brilliance to any outfit. Discover pieces with multiple opals, mixed metals, or minimalist modern design.

How to Buy Opal Jewellery Online

Buying opal jewellery online can be a rewarding experience when you know what to look for. Start by choosing a reputable retailer that specialises in Australian opals and provides detailed product descriptions, clear images and transparency about the opal’s origin. Understanding the different types of opals—such as black, white, boulder and crystal—as well as doublets and triplets, can also help you select a piece that matches your personal style and budget.

Always check for secure payment options, return policies and customer reviews to ensure a safe and satisfying purchase. It's also helpful to compare opal jewellery prices across similar styles to gauge value. Many reputable online stores offer free worldwide shipping, certified gemstones and expert customer service to guide you through the buying process. With the right knowledge and a trusted source, you can confidently purchase a one-of-a-kind opal jewellery piece from the comfort of your home.

Five Reasons Why Opal Jewellery is Trending

Opal jewellery is making waves as the must-have accessory of today. With its vibrant colours, unique designs and rich symbolism, it's easy to see why this type of accessory is captivating fashion lovers worldwide. Here are five reasons why this timeless gemstone is in the spotlight:

Colourful and Unique

Opals are renowned for their dazzling play of colour, displaying a spectrum of hues like blue, green, pink, orange, and rare fiery reds. Each opal is unique, featuring natural patterns and vibrant colours that make every piece of opal jewellery truly one of a kind. Whether it’s an opal ring or a pendant, no two stones are alike, offering a distinctive and personal touch.

Symbolic and Lucky

Historically revered for their spiritual significance, opal gemstones are said to promote hope, love, and self-expression. Ancient Greeks and Romans even believed opals were divine. Despite outdated myths, opals are considered one of the luckiest gemstones, making opal jewellery a meaningful and powerful choice.

Versatile and Sophisticated

The versatility of opal jewellery is unmatched. Whether paired with a casual outfit or formal attire, opals effortlessly elevate any look. Their rainbow hues complement various styles, and their timeless charm ensures they remain a fashion staple across generations.

Effortlessly Chic

For those seeking understated elegance, opal jewellery delivers. Its natural brilliance shines both day and night, offering an effortlessly chic aesthetic. Whether you prefer classic white opals or the bold allure of black opals, wearing opals lets you make a statement with sophistication.

Affordable Luxury

Unlike other gemstones, opal jewellery offers luxury at various price points. From budget-friendly options under $100 to premium gold and platinum designs, there’s an opal piece for every budget. With its unique beauty and value, opals provide an accessible way to own high-quality, real gemstone jewellery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Opal Jewelry

What makes Australian opal jewellery so special?

Australian opals are considered the world’s finest due to their vibrant play-of-colour, rarity and durability. Ethically sourced from mines in Lightning Ridge, Coober Pedy, and Queensland, each gemstone is one-of-a-kind and highly valued in fine jewellery.

Is opal jewellery suitable for everyday wear?

Yes, but with care. While opals are durable, they are softer than diamonds or sapphires. It's best to remove your opal jewellery during heavy physical activity, and to store it separately from harder gemstones. If gifting opal, it may be better to opt for an opal necklace or opal earrings which typically experience less wear and tear.

What types of opal are used in jewellery?

Jewellery may feature several types of Australian opals, including black opal, white opal, crystal opal, boulder opal, doublets, and triplets. Each type has unique colour patterns and value.

Is opal a good gift for October birthdays?

Absolutely! Opal is the official birthstone for October and symbolizes love, creativity, and inspiration. An opal ring, pendant, or earrings make a thoughtful and meaningful October birthday gift.

How do I care for my opal jewellery?

To keep your opal jewellery looking its best, avoid exposure to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures. Clean gently with a soft cloth and mild soap, and store it in a padded jewellery box. Read our full Opal Care Guide here.

Are opals in jewellery ethically sourced?

Yes. At reputable retailers, Australian opals are sourced directly from responsible mines that follow ethical and sustainable practices. Always check that your opal jewellery comes with authenticity guarantees.

Can opal rings be resized?

Many opal rings can be resized, but it depends on the setting and design. It’s best to consult with your jeweller or the store’s customer service team before resizing, as opals require delicate handling.

Is opal and diamond jewellery popular?

Yes! Opal and diamond jewellery is a timeless favourite, combining the vibrant play-of-colour of opals with the brilliance of diamonds. This striking contrast creates elegant pieces perfect for special occasions like engagements, anniversaries, and milestone birthdays. The mix of opal’s natural beauty with diamond sparkle makes these pieces uniquely luxurious and meaningful.

Why Buy Opal Jewellery from Black Star Opal?

Choosing the perfect piece of opal jewellery is a meaningful and personal decision. At Black Star Opal, we’re proud to be one of the most trusted names in the industry, offering a carefully curated collection of fine Australian opal jewellery to suit every style and occasion. From vibrant opal rings to elegant pendants and earrings, each piece is crafted to showcase the natural brilliance of this extraordinary gemstone—at a price that offers genuine value.

With roots deep in the Australian opal industry since 1969, Black Star Opal is a multi-generational family business founded on a passion for this rare and remarkable stone. Originally miners and exporters of Lightning Ridge opal, we’ve grown to include our retail store, The Opal Centre at the Big Banana in Coffs Harbour, and a global online boutique. Thanks to our close ties with miners in Lightning Ridge, Coober Pedy and Queensland, we’re able to ethically source our opals straight from the earth—ensuring unmatched quality and competitive pricing, without compromise.

Opal Jewelry Delivery Information

At Black Star Opal, we are committed to delivering your opal jewellery safely, securely and on time—no matter where you are in the world. All orders are carefully packaged and shipped at no cost from Australia with full insurance for peace of mind.

Free Worldwide Delivery: Whether you're in the USA, UK, Europe or elsewhere, we ship globally with tracking included.

Fast, Secure Shipping: We free global express delivery for all purchases over AUD$1500 with orders valued under this offered express shipping for a small fee.

Fully Insured Parcels: Every order is insured from our door to yours, ensuring your opal jewellery arrives safely and in perfect condition.

Quick Order Processing Time: Most in-stock items ship on the same day (except weekends). You’ll receive a tracking number as soon as your parcel is on its way.

Eco-Friendly Packaging: Our packaging is designed to protect your jewellery while minimising environmental impact.

Your satisfaction is our priority. If you have any questions about shipping, customs or delivery times, please feel free to contact us and we’ll be happy to help.

Read Less