Opal Pendant : What is it?
| Opal pendants are suspended from chain necklaces to accent and add color to one’s outfit. They may be used bare or set on gold or silver mounts. Most of them are oval or teardrop-shaped, which is the most common cut for opals. |
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Kinds of Opal Pendants include the following: |
Black opal pendants
- Black opal pendants have a multiple colors on a black or dark-colored stone.
- Blue and gray hues are usually the most dominant colors.
- Some have a translucent surface with rainbow colors showing through.
Boulder opal pendants
- Boulder opal pendants are set in ironstone and have thin veins or flecks of color.
- They may be light or dark colored.
- They are usually cut free-form because they are mined in irregular shapes.
Light opal pendants
- Light opal pendants have a full range of colors on a white or light blue background.
- Some have a bright red or orange shade. These are called fire opal pendants and are more valuable than other light opals.
- Some varieties are translucent or transparent. These are called light crystal and water opals.
Doublet opal pendants
- Doublet opal pendants are made of several slices of opal pressed onto glass or ironstone,
- They are usually made with light opal, but are designed to look like black opals.
- They are usually cut in ovals or cabochons.
Triplet opal pendants
- Triplet opal pendants consist of a thin layer of precious opal, a backing of glass or lower-grade opal, and a clear quartz crystal cover.
- The middle layer is usually darkened to give it the appearance of black opal.
- They are less valuable than doublet opals because they contain less precious opal.
Common opal pendants
- Common opal pendants are opaque and have duller colors.
- Some are colorless and have faint blue, yellow, or green tints.
- Other varieties are porous and become transparent when dipped in water.
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Color: Choose an opal pendant with a wide array of colors. The most valuable ones have an iridescent layer that changes color at different light angles. Make sure they will not fade or lose luster over time. Ask your dealer if they offer re-polishing warranties.
Shape and mount: Make sure your opal pendant has the right type of mount for the stone’s cut. Oval cuts are best set on four-prong mounts, and teardrop shapes should be held from the top. |
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