Black Opal Gemstones
Explore natural black opal gemstones prized for their dramatic dark body tone and vibrant play-of-color.
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Bi-color
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Black
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Blue
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Brown
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Gray
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Green
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Multicolor Black Opal
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Orange
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Pink
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Purple
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Red
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Turquoise
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Violet
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White
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Yellow
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Single |
Pairs |
Lots |
Faceted |
Cabochons |
1.28ctw Multicolor Black Opal, Oval, Translucent
6 x 4.2 mm
$ 50.69
4.85ct Multicolor Black Opal, Trillion, Opaque
13 x 13 mm (calibrated)
$ 174.60
1.70ctw Multicolor Black Opal, Oval, Translucent
9 x 7 mm (calibrated)
$ 61.20
1.87ct Multicolor Black Opal, Marquise, Opaque
17.2 x 8.2 mm
$ 57.76
1.28ct Multicolor Black Opal, Oval, Opaque
9 x 7 mm (calibrated)
$ 40.55
Why Buy Black Opal from GemSelect?
- Trusted Worldwide Since 2003
- Supplying natural gemstones to jewelers and collectors in 120+ countries
- Verified natural gemstones
- View All GemSelect Reviews on Bizrate
- Secure checkout and insured worldwide delivery
- 30-day returns and satisfaction guarantee
Natural Black Opal Gemstones
Natural black opal gemstones are valued for their dark body color, which enhances vivid flashes of red, blue, and green play-of-color. These rare opals are among the most sought-after varieties in the world.
Loose Black Opals for Jewelry
Loose black opals are ideal for custom jewelry designs, allowing jewelers to showcase each stone’s unique color patterns. They are especially popular for rings, pendants, and statement pieces.
Australian Black Opal
Most fine black opals originate from Australia, particularly Lightning Ridge. Australian black opal is renowned for its strong color contrast, durability, and consistent quality.
Black Opal Play-of-Color
The defining feature of black opal is its intense play-of-color, created by light interacting with microscopic silica spheres. Darker body tones make these colors appear brighter and more dynamic.
Black Opal Cuts and Shapes
Black opals are commonly cut as cabochons to maximize color display, though select stones may be faceted. Popular shapes include oval, freeform, and pear.
Investment-Grade Black Opals
High-quality black opals with strong brightness and rare color combinations are often purchased by collectors as long-term investments due to their limited supply.
Learn more about opal varieties, structure, and care on our Opal Information Page.
FAQs
What makes black opal more valuable than other opals?
Black opal’s dark body tone enhances color intensity, making its play-of-color more vivid and rare compared to white or crystal opals.
Are all black opals from Australia?
Most fine black opals come from Australia, especially Lightning Ridge, though smaller deposits exist elsewhere.
Are GemSelect black opals natural?
Yes, all black opal gemstones sold by GemSelect are natural, with any treatments fully disclosed for transparency.
Is black opal suitable for everyday jewelry?
Black opal can be worn daily with care. Protective settings are recommended, as opals are softer than many other gemstones.
How should black opal gemstones be cared for?
Avoid harsh chemicals, extreme heat, and prolonged dryness. Clean gently with a soft cloth and store separately.
GemSelect Certified Store Reviews
GemSelect: Over 22 Years in the Gemstone Business! Thank you for trusting us with your purchase!
Overall Rating -> 10 
It was good. There was a large selection at prices I could afford.
Overall Rating -> 9 
I was looking for a small gift for a friend- the process is the same as every other time and was very simple, and she even got her gift early! On the downside, there's no way to easily keep track of multiple Shipping Addresses, so if I want to send a gift to Friend A and to Friend B, I have to overwrite everything and it's a fair bit clunky in that regard.
Overall Rating -> 10
Filters need to be improved but rest of website is great
Overall Rating -> 9
Nothing bad to report. Everything is as expected. The gems and the price are all very good.
Overall Rating -> 10
I needed a very specific color of tourmaline and Gem Select had it. I had to get the client to agree and then ordered the stone. It arrived better than pictured and we all were very happy.
Overall Rating -> 10
My experience was done with ease
