How to Identify a Real Opal Stone: Expert Tips & Buying Guide

The Real Opal Stone is one of nature’s most visually brilliant creations—a gem that shows an enchanting play-of-color that no other stone can possibly match. In today’s market, with synthetic and imitation stones readily available, how can you ensure that you’re buying a true, natural opal?

Whether you’re an opal first-time buyer or an experienced gemstone buyer with a collection of precious gems, this complete guide from Navratan – The Online Gem Bazaar will teach you how to spot a real opal stone and fake opals, so that you can make an informed, confident purchase.

Why authenticity is so important

Before getting deep into the identification techniques, let’s take a look at why it’s important to choose a real opal.

In addition to being rare and valuable, real opals are spiritually and astrologically significant as well. In Vedic astrology, opal is the mainstone of Venus (Shukra) and helps bring about love, creativity, prosperity, and emotional balance. Fake opals or synthetics do not possess any of these metaphysical characteristics and have little to no resale value.

We only trade in 100% natural, certified opal stones, providing total transparency, gem lab reports, and expert advice with every purchase.

Important Characteristics of a Genuine Opal Gemstone

Here are the top traits to seek if you’re trying to spot a true opal.

1. Play-of-Color (Iridescence)

An authentic opal shows a dazzling play of colors when turned in the light. This stunning phenomenon is known as play-of-color, the result of the diffraction of light through silica spheres within the stone.

Hold the gem under a bright white light and angle the stone slightly to the side. Spread one of these colors all over the surface. If it changes color when you move, it probably is an actual material.

 Tip by Navratan: The flashes in real opals are random, uneven and scattered. If it looks too even or artificial, then it could be lab grown.

2. Nature-made Inclusions

Real opals have natural inclusions, which synthetics do not allow for, like little cracks in the stone, lines, or pieces of matrix. These blemishes tag them with a geological origin.

Look closely under a magnifying lens to check the state of the stone’s body and base. Colorations Inclusions or organic irregularities should be an indication of authenticity.

3. Front, Back and Side View

Look on the side and underside of the opal stone. Most imitation opals are set on a black piece of material (called doublets or triplets), increasing the color and beauty artificially.

Look closely at the bottom base of the stone — if you see one that has an almost glass-like or a plastic looking base that’s likely a synthetic composite. Natural opals will have a continuous surface from top to bottom.

 Navratan Recommendation: Purchase loose opals before they are set into any jewelry, or request images of the unmounted stone.

4. Weight and Feel 

Natural opals have more density and thus do feel cooler to the touch than the plastic-based fakes.

Snap a photo of yourself holding the stone. A genuine opal will weigh a bit more than a synthetic of the same size and will be cool to the touch at first.

5. Certifying Environmental Testing Labs

The most surefire means of confirming authenticity is by a third-party gemological lab certificate.

Only purchase from sellers such as Navratan Gemstone, which includes third-party certification for every gemstone purchased. These certificates authenticate the stone’s origin, type, and if it is natural or enhanced.

Common Types of Synthetics Opal  Doublet

Here are the biggest knockoffs to watch out for that’ll often lead you astray:

• Doublets: Thin opal slices glued onto a dark backing.

• Triplets Same as doublets, but with an overall top glass or quartz cap.

• Synthetic Opals are lab-created with a similar look, but lacking the natural energy and value.

• Glass or Resin Replicas Usually very high accuracy, with no color shift at all, but can be very easily scratched.

  
  

Where to Purchase a Genuine Opal Gemstone

Purchasing from a conscientious and known gemstone dealer is a must. Synthetic or “treated” opals, which are developed in a lab and often passed off as natural, are commonly listed as such on online marketplaces, duping consumers.

Navratan is your most trusted name in the gemstone industry, providing

•  100% Natural Australian Opals with Certificate of Authenticity

•  Ethically Sourced Stones from Australia, Ethiopia & Mexico

•  FREE Vedic Astrology Consultations with Laura Plumb

•  Secure Shipping & Easy Returns

• Create unique designs featuring your brand or image, using rings, pendants, earrings and more.

  
  
  
  

Last Purchasing Recommendations

Read these pro tips so you know what to look for before buying an opal stone!

•  Never accept a cert unless it was from top labs such as IGI, GIA or GRS.

•  Select the opal type (white, black, fire, boulder, or crystal) that best matches your personality or astrological requirements.

• Each birth chart is unique, so we recommend talking with an astrologer to ensure opal is right for your chart (ideally for strengthening Venus).

•  Rugged terry cloth embroidery and tiger patterns, check under UV illuminator. Natural play-of-color is both unpredictable and magical.

Conclusion

As you can see, identifying genuine opal stone involves a mix of sight, feel, and professional experience. When in doubt, always trust in lab certification and reputable sellers who understand that transparency builds trust.

At Navratan, we cut through the noise to bring you an opal buying experience that’s seamless, genuine, and enlightening. Whether supplying the most beautiful opals or explaining astrological compatibility with gems, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve a striking, individualized, gem alternative that’s gorgeous and genuine.

Find your ideal opal today with Navratan – experience the jewel of trust and tradition.