What Is Play of Color in Opal?
by Suzanne Sachs — 5 min read
THE BASICS --
Radiant and full of fire, opal is a mesmerizing and luxurious gemstone perfect for a bold statement, a one-of-a-kind engagement ring, or a captivating cocktail ring. But what gives opal its signature play-of-color? Discover the phenomenon behind its shifting hues and the allure that makes opal truly unforgettable.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--
In this guide, we will explain the following:
- What is Opal?
- About Play of Color
- How to Care for Opal's Play of Color
What Is Opal?
Before uncovering what creates opal’s dazzling play-of-color, it’s helpful to understand what this mesmerizing gem really is. Opal is a form of hydrated silica, made up of tiny silica spheres that diffract light to create its shifting rainbow-like hues. Depending on the arrangement of these spheres, opals can flash every color of the spectrum. Their body color may range from white and milky tones to vibrant black, blue, or orange.
Opal has been treasured for centuries and was highly prized by the ancient Romans, who believed it was the most powerful of all gemstones. It also held sacred status in Aboriginal Australian culture, where it has been mined for thousands of years. Opals were especially beloved during the Victorian era and into the early 20th century, making them a striking feature in antique and vintage jewelry. Most often, opals are cut into cabochons to highlight their iridescent surface.
The most famous source of gem-quality opal is Australia, which produces over 90% of the world’s supply. Other important deposits are found in Ethiopia, Mexico, Brazil, and the United States, particularly Nevada and Idaho.
Interestingly, opal is the birthstone for October and has long been associated with creativity, intuition, and passion. Though delicate in nature, its one-of-a-kind color display continues to make it a bold and unforgettable gemstone choice.
About Play of Color
What makes opal truly stand out is its dazzling play-of-color—a natural display of shifting rainbow hues that flicker across the stone’s surface. This optical effect occurs when light interacts with microscopic silica spheres inside the opal, bending and breaking into different colors as it moves through the stone. The size, spacing, and arrangement of these spheres affect how the colors appear and in what patterns. As the angle of light or movement changes, so does the color, giving each opal a lively, almost magical quality.
Common play-of-color shades include flashes of blue, green, and yellow, with rarer stones showing vivid orange or deep red. Some opals have a soft, pastel shimmer, while others burst with bold, electric patterns. Though other gemstones like labradorite and moonstone show optical effects, opal's full-spectrum fire is unmatched in its variety and intensity.
How to Care for Opal's Play of Color
The magic of opal lies in its vivid play-of-color—but to keep that colorful glow at its best, proper care is key. Opals are delicate gemstones, and over time, surface oils, dirt, or residue can interfere with how light moves through the stone. A gentle wipe with a soft, lint-free cloth helps maintain clarity and keeps the gem looking bright and alive..
The way an opal is set can also affect how much its color shines through. Open, airy settings tend to let in more light, boosting the stone’s natural fire. More enclosed settings, while offering extra protection, may reduce light exposure, so keeping the stone clean becomes even more important.
Knowing how opal’s color works only deepens your appreciation for it. Once you understand how light brings it to life, you’ll never look at its shifting colors the same way again.
Suzanne Sachs
Suzanne has always believed vintage rings can change lives. She's been in the jewelry industry for over 35 years, working with vintage jewelers, diamond dealers, diamond cutters, and gemologists. Suzanne started Artdecodiamonds in 2000 and understood the demand for vintage rings throughout the world. She ultimately started VintageDiamondRing.com in 2014, and understands each vintage ring is a reflection of you — your history, your relationships, your style, your elegance and is honored to have the opportunity to help you showcase your flair in a unique and exquisite way.
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