Opal Rings: Styles, Meanings & Buying Tips
At Black Star Opal, we create opal rings that are as unique as the people who wear them. Each opal ring features a genuine, ethically sourced Australian opal—from the legendary fields of Lightning Ridge, Coober Pedy, and Queensland—renowned for producing over 90% of the world’s finest gem-quality opals.
Whether you’re searching for a dazzling black opal engagement ring, a vibrant crystal opal set in gold, or a timeless white opal ring in silver, our designs combine expert craftsmanship with the natural beauty of this rare...
Read More
Opal Rings: Styles, Meanings & Buying Tips
At Black Star Opal, we create opal rings that are as unique as the people who wear them. Each opal ring features a genuine, ethically sourced Australian opal—from the legendary fields of Lightning Ridge, Coober Pedy, and Queensland—renowned for producing over 90% of the world’s finest gem-quality opals.
Whether you’re searching for a dazzling black opal engagement ring, a vibrant crystal opal set in gold, or a timeless white opal ring in silver, our designs combine expert craftsmanship with the natural beauty of this rare gemstone. Backed by decades of experience in the Australian opal industry, we guarantee authenticity, quality and exceptional value with every ring.
In this guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about buying opal rings, including:
Most Popular Opal Ring Styles
From elegant solitaire opal engagement rings to bold opal cocktail rings, our range includes black opal rings, crystal opal rings, white opal rings and boulder opal rings— available in gold, sterling silver and diamond-accented designs for every taste and occasion.
Opal Ring Symbolism & Meaning
Opal rings have long been associated with love, passion, creativity, and emotional healing. As the October birthstone and Australia’s national gemstone, they make deeply personal gifts with lasting significance.
Opal Ring Buying Guide
Get expert tips on choosing the perfect opal ring—including how to select opal types, colours, patterns, the best settings for durability, and which metals complement your chosen gemstone.
First, Why Choose an Australian Opal Ring?
Australia produces over 90% of the world’s gem quality opals, and for good reason: these Australian gems are unrivalled in quality, colour and durability. At Black Star Opal, we work exclusively with natural Australian opals, mined under strict ethical and environmental standards. Unlike lab-created or treated stones, they display a captivating play-of-colour that can’t be replicated. Their rarity—especially Lightning Ridge black opals—makes them a valuable investment and a meaningful choice.
Popular Types of Opals in Our Rings
Choosing a ring set with an opal means choosing a piece that will never be duplicated. Every stone is unique in colour, pattern and character—just like the person wearing it. Our collection features a diverse range including
Black Opal
Among the rarest and most valuable gems in the world, black opals are celebrated for their deep body tone and intense play-of-colour. Sourced from Lightning Ridge, these gemstones feature vivid flashes of blue, green, red and more—framed by a rich dark base that enhances their vibrancy.
Crystal Opal
Known for their translucent to transparent body, crystal opals are prized for their brightness and clarity. These gems glow with electric colour from within and are often cut into classic cabochon shapes to showcase their full brilliance.
White Opal
With a light, milky base and soft pastel hues, white opals from Coober Pedy are the classic opal choice. Popular in both vintage and modern settings, these rings are elegant, feminine and endlessly versatile.
Boulder Opal
Set naturally within their ironstone matrix, boulder opals from Queensland boast striking contrasts and unique patterns. Often asymmetrical or freeform, a boulder opal ring is perfect for those who love jewellery with an earthy touch.
Doublets & Triplets
These layered gems offer stunning colour at a more accessible price point. Made by combining a slice of natural opal with a dark backing (doublet) or both a backing and clear cap (triplet), they create the look of high-grade dark opal while remaining budget-friendly.
Discover Your Perfect Ring Style
Our curated collections cater to every taste, occasion and budget. From bold and dramatic to subtle and classic, here’s a closer look at our most popular styles:
Opal Engagement Rings
Looking for a unique alternative to traditional diamond rings? Engagement rings set with opal are deeply personal and symbolic. No two stones are ever the same, making them a beautiful way to celebrate love, individuality and lifelong commitment.
Opal and Diamond Rings
Blending the rainbow fire of opal with the timeless sparkle of diamonds and sleek gold, these rings are among our most sought-after designs. Perfect for anniversaries, proposals, or statement pieces, they deliver refined elegance with a twist.
Opal Dress Rings
Our dress rings are made to impress—featuring bold colours and premium metals that elevate any outfit from ordinary to extraordinary.
Blue Opal Rings
Loved for their oceanic charm, these rings offer rich hues of sea and sky. Whether deep and moody or light and bright, our blue opals exude calm, creativity and natural beauty.
Gold Opal Rings
Set in 14ct or 18ct yellow, white or rose gold, our gold opal rings pair opals with warm luxury. Gold enhances the stone’s natural beauty and adds timeless sophistication to every design.
The Meaning and Symbolism of Opal Rings
For centuries, opals have been treasured not only for their beauty but also for their powerful symbolism. In many cultures, opal rings are believed to represent love, passion, creativity and emotional healing. The shifting colours are said to reflect the complexity of human emotions, making them a deeply personal and meaningful gift.
As Australia’s national gemstone, opal also holds a special place in our heritage. Wearing an opal ring can be a celebration of individuality—no two stones are ever alike—and a symbol of connection to the earth, as these gems are formed naturally over millions of years. If you’re gifting an opal ring, it’s worth noting that opal is the birthstone for October, making it a thoughtful choice for birthdays, anniversaries and milestones.
Expert Tips for Choosing the Perfect Opal Ring
When investing in an opal ring, there are a few key factors we advise our customers to consider:
Type of Opal – Black opals and boulder opals are highly valued for their vibrant play-of-colour and durability. Crystal and white opals offer lighter, ethereal tones, while doublets and triplets give a stunning look at a more affordable price.
Colour & Pattern – Look for bright, even colour and patterns you connect with, such as Harlequin, Pinfire or Rolling Flash.
Setting Style – A bezel setting provides extra protection, while a claw setting allows more light into the stone. Choose based on your style and lifestyle.
Metal Choice – Yellow, white or rose gold will enhance different tones in the opal, while sterling silver and gold plated silver offer contemporary and affordable options.
Lifestyle Considerations – Opals are softer than diamonds or sapphires, so if you plan to wear your ring every day, choose a setting that protects the stone.
Our team at Black Star Opal is always happy to offer personalised advice, ensuring you find an opal ring that matches your style, budget and story.
Buying Opal Rings Online with Confidence
When purchasing online, trust is everything. As an established Australian family business with a legacy in opal mining and jewelry design, Black Star Opal ensures that every piece is authentic, natural and fairly priced. Here’s what to look for:
- A clear description of stone type, origin, and treatment
- High-quality photos showing the opal’s colours and setting from multiple angles
- Transparent return policies and customer support
- Verified reviews and testimonials from satisfied customers
- Authenticity certificates for high-end pieces
- Educational content and buying guides (like this one!) to help inform your decision
Still unsure? Our team of opal experts is here to help guide you every step of the way.
Opal Ring FAQs
1. Are opal rings suitable for everyday wear?
Yes, opal rings can be worn daily—but with care. Opals are softer than diamonds or sapphires, ranking 5.5–6.5 on the Mohs scale, so they’re more prone to scratching or impact damage. Choose a secure setting, like a bezel, and avoid wearing your ring during activities that could expose it to knocks, chemicals or extreme temperatures.
2. How do I clean and care for my opal ring?
To clean your opal jewelry, simply use a soft damp cloth or mild soap and warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners or soaking the ring for long periods—especially for doublet and triplet opals. Store your jewelry separately in a padded box or pouch, away from direct sunlight and heat.
3. What is the meaning or symbolism of an opal ring?
Opal rings are rich in symbolism, often associated with love, creativity, emotional healing and self-expression. For centuries, they have been viewed as stones of intuition and inspiration. They’re also the official birthstone of October, making them a thoughtful gift for those born in that month.
4. Are all opal rings made with natural opals?
At Black Star Opal, we specialise in natural Australian opal rings, and each piece is clearly labelled to help you make an informed choice. However some retailers use synthetic stones so be sure to check the product description fully to ensure you're only buying real gems.
5. Can you resize an opal ring?
Yes, most can be resized by a professional jeweller, and we offer a ring resizing service at Black Star Opal. Because these gems are sensitive to heat and pressure, resizing should only be done by someone experienced with opal settings to avoid damaging the stone. Found a ring you love and want to know if it can be resized? Get in touch to find out.
6. How much is an opal ring worth?
The value of an opal ring depends on the type of stone, its quality, origin, size and the setting. Australian opals—especially black and crystal varieties—can be highly valuable. Prices range from under $100 for simple triplet rings to several thousand dollars for premium natural gem set in gold or platinum.
7. What is the best opal for a ring?
Black opals and boulder opals from Australia are among the best for rings due to their durability and intense play-of-colour. Crystal opals also make beautiful, eye-catching choices, as do white opals. If you're looking for something more budget-friendly, triplet opals are a stylish option for occasional wear.
8. How do I choose the right opal ring?
To choose the right ring, consider the stone’s colour, pattern, body tone, and origin—each affects its look and rarity. Popular patterns include Pinfire, Floral and Rolling Flash, while body tones range from light to dark. Origin matters too, with Lightning Ridge known for rare black opals and crystal stones, Coober Pedy for white, and Queensland for boulder opals. Shape and cut add personality, while gold or silver settings in bezel or claw styles offer a balance of beauty and durability.
9. Do opal rings change colour over time?
Natural opals do not change colour if properly cared for. However, triplet opals may become cloudy or discoloured over time if exposed to water, chemicals or extreme humidity. To keep your opal ring looking its best, avoid prolonged moisture exposure and store it safely when not in use.
10. What metals pair best with opals in rings?
Opals pair beautifully with all metals, but the right metal depends on the opal’s tone and your style preferences. Lighter opals look elegant in silver or white gold, while darker opals—like black and boulder—stand out in yellow or rose gold.
11. Are opal rings good for engagement rings?
Absolutely. Opal rings are a unique and meaningful alternative to traditional diamond engagement rings. Their vibrant colours and romantic symbolism make them a standout choice. For engagement rings, it’s best to select a durable setting such as a bezel or halo of diamonds around the main stone, and wear with extra care to preserve its beauty over time.
12. Do you supply opal rings to the USA?
Yes, we are the leading global supplier of genuine Australian opal rings to the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia and beyond. Our opal rings are shipped to and found in New York, Los Angeles, Houston, Miami and everywhere you shop for opal rings in the USA.
Why Buy Opal Rings from Black Star Opal?
The business behind Black Star Opal began in Lightning Ridge in 1969 and continues today through our retail location, The Opal Centre at the Big Banana in Coffs Harbour, and our global e-commerce store. What sets us apart?
Expertise: Decades of hands-on experience in sourcing, mining and crafting Australian opals
Authenticity: Every stone is 100% natural, ethically sourced and expertly assessed
Selection: The largest online collection of opal rings and jewellery
Customer Service: Personalised guidance and support, every step of the way
Trust: A proven track record of excellence with thousands of satisfied customers worldwide. We are also members of the Australian Opal Association.
With decades of experience in the Australian opal industry, at Black Star Opal we guarantee every opal ring is chosen for its exceptional colour, brilliance and character. Our commitment to transparency, fair pricing and free worldwide shipping means customers can shop with complete confidence, knowing they’re getting the best opal rings direct from the source.
At Black Star Opal, we are recognised as one of the world’s largest and most trusted suppliers of genuine natural Australian opal rings, serving customers across the USA, Australia, Canada, the UK, Europe and beyond. Whether you're looking for your first opal piece or a rare collector’s piece, we’re here to help you find something truly special. Contact us today or explore our curated collections to find your perfect piece.
Read Less
Opal Rings: Styles, Meanings & Buying Tips
At Black Star Opal, we create opal rings that are as unique as the people who wear them. Each opal ring features a genuine, ethically sourced Australian opal—from the legendary fields of Lightning Ridge, Coober Pedy, and Queensland—renowned for producing over 90% of the world’s finest gem-quality opals.
Whether you’re searching for a dazzling black opal engagement ring, a vibrant crystal opal set in gold, or a timeless white opal ring in silver, our designs combine expert craftsmanship with the natural beauty of this rare gemstone. Backed by decades of experience in the Australian opal industry, we guarantee authenticity, quality and exceptional value with every ring.
In this guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about buying opal rings, including:
Most Popular Opal Ring Styles
From elegant solitaire opal engagement rings to bold opal cocktail rings, our range includes black opal rings, crystal opal rings, white opal rings and boulder opal rings— available in gold, sterling silver and diamond-accented designs for every taste and occasion.
Opal Ring Symbolism & Meaning
Opal rings have long been associated with love, passion, creativity, and emotional healing. As the October birthstone and Australia’s national gemstone, they make deeply personal gifts with lasting significance.
Opal Ring Buying Guide
Get expert tips on choosing the perfect opal ring—including how to select opal types, colours, patterns, the best settings for durability, and which metals complement your chosen gemstone.
First, Why Choose an Australian Opal Ring?
Australia produces over 90% of the world’s gem quality opals, and for good reason: these Australian gems are unrivalled in quality, colour and durability. At Black Star Opal, we work exclusively with natural Australian opals, mined under strict ethical and environmental standards. Unlike lab-created or treated stones, they display a captivating play-of-colour that can’t be replicated. Their rarity—especially Lightning Ridge black opals—makes them a valuable investment and a meaningful choice.
Popular Types of Opals in Our Rings
Choosing a ring set with an opal means choosing a piece that will never be duplicated. Every stone is unique in colour, pattern and character—just like the person wearing it. Our collection features a diverse range including
Black Opal
Among the rarest and most valuable gems in the world, black opals are celebrated for their deep body tone and intense play-of-colour. Sourced from Lightning Ridge, these gemstones feature vivid flashes of blue, green, red and more—framed by a rich dark base that enhances their vibrancy.
Crystal Opal
Known for their translucent to transparent body, crystal opals are prized for their brightness and clarity. These gems glow with electric colour from within and are often cut into classic cabochon shapes to showcase their full brilliance.
White Opal
With a light, milky base and soft pastel hues, white opals from Coober Pedy are the classic opal choice. Popular in both vintage and modern settings, these rings are elegant, feminine and endlessly versatile.
Boulder Opal
Set naturally within their ironstone matrix, boulder opals from Queensland boast striking contrasts and unique patterns. Often asymmetrical or freeform, a boulder opal ring is perfect for those who love jewellery with an earthy touch.
Doublets & Triplets
These layered gems offer stunning colour at a more accessible price point. Made by combining a slice of natural opal with a dark backing (doublet) or both a backing and clear cap (triplet), they create the look of high-grade dark opal while remaining budget-friendly.
Discover Your Perfect Ring Style
Our curated collections cater to every taste, occasion and budget. From bold and dramatic to subtle and classic, here’s a closer look at our most popular styles:
Opal Engagement Rings
Looking for a unique alternative to traditional diamond rings? Engagement rings set with opal are deeply personal and symbolic. No two stones are ever the same, making them a beautiful way to celebrate love, individuality and lifelong commitment.
Opal and Diamond Rings
Blending the rainbow fire of opal with the timeless sparkle of diamonds and sleek gold, these rings are among our most sought-after designs. Perfect for anniversaries, proposals, or statement pieces, they deliver refined elegance with a twist.
Opal Dress Rings
Our dress rings are made to impress—featuring bold colours and premium metals that elevate any outfit from ordinary to extraordinary.
Blue Opal Rings
Loved for their oceanic charm, these rings offer rich hues of sea and sky. Whether deep and moody or light and bright, our blue opals exude calm, creativity and natural beauty.
Gold Opal Rings
Set in 14ct or 18ct yellow, white or rose gold, our gold opal rings pair opals with warm luxury. Gold enhances the stone’s natural beauty and adds timeless sophistication to every design.
The Meaning and Symbolism of Opal Rings
For centuries, opals have been treasured not only for their beauty but also for their powerful symbolism. In many cultures, opal rings are believed to represent love, passion, creativity and emotional healing. The shifting colours are said to reflect the complexity of human emotions, making them a deeply personal and meaningful gift.
As Australia’s national gemstone, opal also holds a special place in our heritage. Wearing an opal ring can be a celebration of individuality—no two stones are ever alike—and a symbol of connection to the earth, as these gems are formed naturally over millions of years. If you’re gifting an opal ring, it’s worth noting that opal is the birthstone for October, making it a thoughtful choice for birthdays, anniversaries and milestones.
Expert Tips for Choosing the Perfect Opal Ring
When investing in an opal ring, there are a few key factors we advise our customers to consider:
Type of Opal – Black opals and boulder opals are highly valued for their vibrant play-of-colour and durability. Crystal and white opals offer lighter, ethereal tones, while doublets and triplets give a stunning look at a more affordable price.
Colour & Pattern – Look for bright, even colour and patterns you connect with, such as Harlequin, Pinfire or Rolling Flash.
Setting Style – A bezel setting provides extra protection, while a claw setting allows more light into the stone. Choose based on your style and lifestyle.
Metal Choice – Yellow, white or rose gold will enhance different tones in the opal, while sterling silver and gold plated silver offer contemporary and affordable options.
Lifestyle Considerations – Opals are softer than diamonds or sapphires, so if you plan to wear your ring every day, choose a setting that protects the stone.
Our team at Black Star Opal is always happy to offer personalised advice, ensuring you find an opal ring that matches your style, budget and story.
Buying Opal Rings Online with Confidence
When purchasing online, trust is everything. As an established Australian family business with a legacy in opal mining and jewelry design, Black Star Opal ensures that every piece is authentic, natural and fairly priced. Here’s what to look for:
- A clear description of stone type, origin, and treatment
- High-quality photos showing the opal’s colours and setting from multiple angles
- Transparent return policies and customer support
- Verified reviews and testimonials from satisfied customers
- Authenticity certificates for high-end pieces
- Educational content and buying guides (like this one!) to help inform your decision
Still unsure? Our team of opal experts is here to help guide you every step of the way.
Opal Ring FAQs
1. Are opal rings suitable for everyday wear?
Yes, opal rings can be worn daily—but with care. Opals are softer than diamonds or sapphires, ranking 5.5–6.5 on the Mohs scale, so they’re more prone to scratching or impact damage. Choose a secure setting, like a bezel, and avoid wearing your ring during activities that could expose it to knocks, chemicals or extreme temperatures.
2. How do I clean and care for my opal ring?
To clean your opal jewelry, simply use a soft damp cloth or mild soap and warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners or soaking the ring for long periods—especially for doublet and triplet opals. Store your jewelry separately in a padded box or pouch, away from direct sunlight and heat.
3. What is the meaning or symbolism of an opal ring?
Opal rings are rich in symbolism, often associated with love, creativity, emotional healing and self-expression. For centuries, they have been viewed as stones of intuition and inspiration. They’re also the official birthstone of October, making them a thoughtful gift for those born in that month.
4. Are all opal rings made with natural opals?
At Black Star Opal, we specialise in natural Australian opal rings, and each piece is clearly labelled to help you make an informed choice. However some retailers use synthetic stones so be sure to check the product description fully to ensure you're only buying real gems.
5. Can you resize an opal ring?
Yes, most can be resized by a professional jeweller, and we offer a ring resizing service at Black Star Opal. Because these gems are sensitive to heat and pressure, resizing should only be done by someone experienced with opal settings to avoid damaging the stone. Found a ring you love and want to know if it can be resized? Get in touch to find out.
6. How much is an opal ring worth?
The value of an opal ring depends on the type of stone, its quality, origin, size and the setting. Australian opals—especially black and crystal varieties—can be highly valuable. Prices range from under $100 for simple triplet rings to several thousand dollars for premium natural gem set in gold or platinum.
7. What is the best opal for a ring?
Black opals and boulder opals from Australia are among the best for rings due to their durability and intense play-of-colour. Crystal opals also make beautiful, eye-catching choices, as do white opals. If you're looking for something more budget-friendly, triplet opals are a stylish option for occasional wear.
8. How do I choose the right opal ring?
To choose the right ring, consider the stone’s colour, pattern, body tone, and origin—each affects its look and rarity. Popular patterns include Pinfire, Floral and Rolling Flash, while body tones range from light to dark. Origin matters too, with Lightning Ridge known for rare black opals and crystal stones, Coober Pedy for white, and Queensland for boulder opals. Shape and cut add personality, while gold or silver settings in bezel or claw styles offer a balance of beauty and durability.
9. Do opal rings change colour over time?
Natural opals do not change colour if properly cared for. However, triplet opals may become cloudy or discoloured over time if exposed to water, chemicals or extreme humidity. To keep your opal ring looking its best, avoid prolonged moisture exposure and store it safely when not in use.
10. What metals pair best with opals in rings?
Opals pair beautifully with all metals, but the right metal depends on the opal’s tone and your style preferences. Lighter opals look elegant in silver or white gold, while darker opals—like black and boulder—stand out in yellow or rose gold.
11. Are opal rings good for engagement rings?
Absolutely. Opal rings are a unique and meaningful alternative to traditional diamond engagement rings. Their vibrant colours and romantic symbolism make them a standout choice. For engagement rings, it’s best to select a durable setting such as a bezel or halo of diamonds around the main stone, and wear with extra care to preserve its beauty over time.
12. Do you supply opal rings to the USA?
Yes, we are the leading global supplier of genuine Australian opal rings to the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia and beyond. Our opal rings are shipped to and found in New York, Los Angeles, Houston, Miami and everywhere you shop for opal rings in the USA.
Why Buy Opal Rings from Black Star Opal?
The business behind Black Star Opal began in Lightning Ridge in 1969 and continues today through our retail location, The Opal Centre at the Big Banana in Coffs Harbour, and our global e-commerce store. What sets us apart?
Expertise: Decades of hands-on experience in sourcing, mining and crafting Australian opals
Authenticity: Every stone is 100% natural, ethically sourced and expertly assessed
Selection: The largest online collection of opal rings and jewellery
Customer Service: Personalised guidance and support, every step of the way
Trust: A proven track record of excellence with thousands of satisfied customers worldwide. We are also members of the Australian Opal Association.
With decades of experience in the Australian opal industry, at Black Star Opal we guarantee every opal ring is chosen for its exceptional colour, brilliance and character. Our commitment to transparency, fair pricing and free worldwide shipping means customers can shop with complete confidence, knowing they’re getting the best opal rings direct from the source.
At Black Star Opal, we are recognised as one of the world’s largest and most trusted suppliers of genuine natural Australian opal rings, serving customers across the USA, Australia, Canada, the UK, Europe and beyond. Whether you're looking for your first opal piece or a rare collector’s piece, we’re here to help you find something truly special. Contact us today or explore our curated collections to find your perfect piece.
Read Less 
