OPAL is known in Chinese as "蛋白石" or "澳宝", and its gemological name is opal. As the birthstone for October, it symbolizes hope and happiness. The colorful refraction of opal comes from the moisture contained within the mineral, with typical opals having a water content of about 3%-20%; the higher the water content, the more pronounced the play of color. Opal forms slowly under low-temperature conditions and can be found in almost all types of rocks, but is generally discovered in limestone, sandstone, and basalt. Australia is the largest producer of opal, and opal is also known as Australia's "national stone."
WILLS Opal Collection
Common Types of Opal
White Opal
White Opal
White opal is one of the most common types of opal, displaying play of color against a white background, resembling a rainbow appearing among white clouds after rain.
Black Opal
Black Opal
Black opal displays play of color against a dark background. The industry rates Australian black opal the highest, not only because of its rarity but also because the play of color is most pronounced against a dark background.
Crystal Opal
Crystal Opal
Crystal opal is a transparent mineral with water crystals, allowing images behind the gemstone to be seen through its surface, presenting a unique charm when set in jewelry.
The Value of Opal
The value of opal lies in its captivating play of color, which is due to water molecules within the gemstone mixing with other atoms, resulting in various colors such as iron, calcium, magnesium, and copper. Opal generally has a glassy or waxy luster, and if the color play changes with the angle, it is considered a precious gemstone; therefore, the higher the saturation of the opal, the greater its value. In recent years, high-quality opals have become increasingly expensive, with high-saturation opals selling for tens of thousands of dollars at auction.
