Recognized for its brilliant play of colors, Opal is a semi-precious white colored gemstone of the Silicate family. Also, Opal is known as the astrological substitute for Diamonds that promotes a luxurious lifestyle, good health, high social status, and success in life.
Today, Opals are considered as some of the most desired gemstones due to their mesmerizing color tone and shades. The Opal stone price per carat starts from INR 200 ($ 2) – INR 300 ($ 4). An average White Opal price per carat can range from INR 500 ($ 7) – INR 1,000 ($ 14) whereas White Opal with fire color tones can range from INR 1,000 ($ 14) – INR 5,000 ($ 70) per carat. Black Opals are quite rare and therefore, Black Opal price per carat starts from INR 1,000 ($ 14) – INR 10,000 ($ 140) or even more.
The factors that affect the price per carat of Opal gemstones are its Origin, Color, Clarity, Shape, Brightness, Pattern, and Direction of Color. The following factors are briefly explained below –
Origin: Australia is known as the source of the world’s most expensive Opals. The price per carat of Australian Opals starts from INR 700 ($ 10) – INR 5,000 ($ 70) per carat. Many countries like Ethiopia, Mexico, and Brazil have emerged as recent sources of good quality Opals. The price of Ethiopian Opal per carat starts from INR 500 ($ 7) – INR 2,000 ($ 25). Opals from each country are unique and due to different origins, the Opal value is determined.
Color: Color is the most important factor when judging the quality and price of an Opal gemstone. However, Opal does not have a monotonous color scheme. Red is the most valuable color and demands a much higher price, followed by orange, green, blue, and purple. The dominant color visible in the Opal gemstone is used as a factor that affects its price. A vibrant colored Opal will always command a higher value when compared to the less bright or dull Opal gemstones.
The direction of Color: Opals have a unique property that allows them to change their color shade when the viewing angle changes. The direction of color is very crucial as it showcases the versatility of an Opal gemstone. An Opal will be of the higher price if it displays different color patterns when viewed from different angles, whereas an Opal with a change in color from only one direction will hold a lower price per carat.
Pattern: Opals with unique patterns Rainbow, Honeycomb, Pinfire, etc will automatically have increased price. Opal gemstones with different patterns allow the stone to be visibly more attractive. Therefore, Opals with no significant pattern fall under the category of lower value Opals.
Brightness: Australian Opal Association has given an Opal brightness guide, according to which the Opals are judged on the brightness factor. The guide contains 7 levels with B1 being the highest and B7 being the lowest. Now, with respect to this factor, the Opals with higher brightness will also hold a higher price per carat.
Shape: Except for Boulder Opals where a unique shape is desirable, Opals are generally preferred in oval shapes. The oval shape complements the color properties of the gemstone by enhancing its overall color tone and appearance. Opals shaped in cabochon-cut are more valuable than any other flat shape.
Clarity: The transparent Opal gemstones generally have a lower price due to the presence of milky or cloudy inclusions. The price per carat of crystal Opal increases with the rise in the level of transparency. The price of opaque Opal gemstones like White Opal and Black Opal stone price will increase if visible eye inclusions are not present in the gemstone.
Exquisite Collection of Opal gemstones at GemPundit
GemPundit, being a leading provider of gemstones and gemstone jewelry provides 100% natural, unheated, untreated, authentic, and gem-lab certified gemstones. A wide range of IGR/AGR/ISKON/ITLGJ/GEMTRUE/JBN Certified Opal gemstones are available on our website at the best prices.
Opal is very popular among gemstone jewelry designers and jewelry lovers due to its beautiful and attractive color scheme. At GemPundit, one can find an exclusive range of Opal Rings, Opal Pendants, and Opal Bracelets. At GemPundit, you will find trendy collections of Opal Jewelry. Create your style and customize your designs from our Custom Jewelry section. Our team of skilled and professional CAD experts will design your Opal jewelry as per your style and will guide you through each step if you don’t have even the slightest idea about gemstones. The price of Opal jewelry depends on the quality of Opal gemstone, choice of metal used in jewelry, labor charges, and many other factors.
GemPundit’s expert astrologer will recommend gemstones that will suit your needs based on your birth details and zodiac sign. Our expert consultants provide 24×7 customer support to cater to the needs of the customer and aim to provide the best service. For quick and accurate astrological gem recommendations, you can also get assistance through our Free Gem Recommendation Tool or Book our Astro Consultation Service.