A loose black opal refers to a gemstone that is not set in any jewelry. These include natural black opals, high-quality black opals, and even uncut black opals, offering versatility for customization and design.
What makes Australian black opals unique?
Australian black opals are renowned for their vivid play-of-color and dark body tone, making them the most valuable type of opal. Mined in areas like Lightning Ridge, these Australian black opals are often considered the pinnacle of black opal gems.
How do Ethiopian black opals differ from Australian black opals?
Ethiopian black opals are known for their unique patterns and vibrant colors. While Australian black opals have a more traditional dark body tone, Ethiopian black opals can feature translucent and fiery patterns.
What are semi-black opals and solid black opals?
Semi-black opals, also called gray or dark opals, have a medium-dark body tone, whereas solid black opals have a pure dark background that enhances their play-of-color. Both types are popular among collectors of black opal gems.
Are raw black opals and uncut black opals the same?
Yes, raw black opals and uncut black opals refer to opals in their natural, unpolished state. These loose black opals are ideal for those who want to shape or customize the stone themselves.
How do I care for my loose black opals?
To maintain the brilliance of your black opals, including solid black opals and semi-black opals, avoid exposing them to sudden temperature changes or harsh chemicals. Store them in a safe, moisture-controlled environment.
Why are black opals so valuable?
Black opals, especially high-quality black opals from Australia, are rare and known for their stunning play-of-color. Natural black opals and solid black opals with vivid color patterns are particularly prized among collectors and jewelers.
GemSelect Certified Store Reviews
GemSelect: Over 22 Years in the Gemstone Business! Thank you for trusting us with your purchase!
Overall Rating -> 10
love the site, the experience and the products.
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I did not realize these stones were of jewelry quality. They are really beautiful, just not what I was expecting which was more of a natural stone.
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I found exactly what I was looking for and ordered it. I like how you give information on the stones I'm buying. Glad I found you!
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Excellent selection of stones -including ones I had never heard of before -nice site and fairly easy to use
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The site provided lots of detail, factual data, and good photos. I also like the availability of searching by price range as well as by the type of stone.
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Enjoyed shopping.
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When I need a specific stone, gem select is my go to shop. Always a good experience and a great product.
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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.
Posted By Jezzi in June, 2025
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Overall Rating -> 10
I found what I was looking for...had to look up millimeters to inches. It would be nice to see something, like a quarter, in the pix to show relative size. I plan on buy loose gemstones for every month in the calendar
