What makes Ethiopian opals unique?

Ethiopian opals, particularly Ethiopian Welo opals, are known for their incredible play of color and unique patterns. These gemstones are highly sought after for their vibrant hues and versatility in jewelry making. From raw Ethiopian opal to faceted Ethiopian opals, each stone offers exceptional beauty.

What is the difference between Welo opals and other Ethiopian opals?

Welo opals are a specific type of Ethiopian opal that come from the Welo region. They are prized for their durability and stunning play of color. Many prefer loose Welo opals for custom jewelry designs due to their bright and vivid appearance.

Can I buy loose Ethiopian opals for custom jewelry?

Yes! Loose Ethiopian opals are perfect for creating unique custom jewelry pieces. You can choose from a variety of options, including natural Ethiopian opals, freeform Ethiopian opals, and Ethiopian opal beads to match your design preferences.

Are Ethiopian opals durable?

While Ethiopian opals are relatively durable, they are softer than some other gemstones. Care is needed to protect your Welo opal gemstones and other Ethiopian opal loose stones from scratches and harsh conditions.

How do I care for Ethiopian opals?

To maintain the brilliance of your loose Ethiopian opals, avoid exposure to extreme temperatures and harsh chemicals. Clean them gently with a soft cloth. This applies to all types, including Ethiopian crystal opals, semi-precious Ethiopian opals, and Welo opal loose stones.

Are Ethiopian opals available in different forms?

Yes! You can find Ethiopian opals in various forms, including raw Ethiopian opal, faceted Ethiopian opals, Ethiopian opal rough, and Ethiopian opal beads. These options cater to different needs, from collectors to jewelry makers.

Why are Ethiopian Welo opals popular among collectors?

Ethiopian Welo opals are popular due to their vibrant colors, durability, and unique patterns. They are available in diverse styles, such as freeform Ethiopian opals, Welo opal gemstones, and polished Ethiopian opal loose stones, making them a favorite among collectors.

Loose Ethiopian Opal: Shop Natural Welo Opals, Ethiopian Gemstones for Jewelry, Wholesale Ethiopian Opal

Ethiopian Opal Weight

Ethiopian Opal Size

Ethiopian Opal Clarity

Ethiopian Opal Price

Size Explained

Choose Size or Size Range

For Example: 6-7

For Example: 8-9

Bi-color

Black Ethiopian Opal

Blue

Brown Ethiopian Opal

Golden

Gray

Green Ethiopian Opal

Multicolor Ethiopian Opal

Orange Ethiopian Opal

Pink

Purple

Red

Turquoise

Violet

White

Yellow

Single

Pairs

Lots

Faceted

Cabochons

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1.47ctw Multicolor Opal, Oval, Opaque

8 x 6 mm (calibrated)

$ 43.92

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1.05ct Multicolor Opal, Oval, Transparent

9 x 7 mm (calibrated)

$ 33.03

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1.13ct Multicolor Black Opal, Pear Shape, Opaque

10 x 8 mm (calibrated)

$ 32.83

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1.12ctw Multicolor Opal, Oval, Opaque

7 x 5 mm (calibrated)

$ 36.81

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5.51ctw Multicolor Black Opal, Oval, Translucent

9 x 7 mm (calibrated)

$ 126.34

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2.03ctw Multicolor Opal, Round, Transparent

7 mm (calibrated)

$ 49.84

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1.22ct Multicolor Opal, Oval, Transparent

10 x 8 mm (calibrated)

$ 30.68

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1.16ct Brown Chocolate Opal, Oval, Opaque

9 x 7 mm (calibrated)

$ 34.66

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4.70ct Multicolor Black Opal, Round, Opaque

12 mm (calibrated)

$ 118.75

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2.50ct Multicolor Black Opal, Sphere / Ball, Opaque

8 mm (calibrated)

$ 74.70

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1.59ct Multicolor Opal, Oval, Transparent

10 x 8 mm (calibrated)

$ 73.16

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1.71ct Multicolor Opal, Oval, Transparent

11 x 9 mm (calibrated)

$ 78.68

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1.48ctw Multicolor Opal, Oval, Transparent

7 x 5 mm (calibrated)

$ 64.86

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1.19ct Green Opal, Oval, Opaque

9 x 7 mm (calibrated)

$ 35.56

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1.24ct Multicolor Black Opal, Oval, Translucent

9.2 x 7.6 mm

$ 30.88

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1.43ct Multicolor Opal, Oval, Transparent

9 x 7 mm (calibrated)

$ 42.73

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1.14ct Multicolor Opal, Oval, Translucent

9 x 7 mm (calibrated)

$ 49.96

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1.27ct Multicolor Opal, Marquise, Transparent

14.8 x 6.5 mm

$ 55.66

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2.36ct Multicolor Opal, Emerald Cut, Transparent

15.8 x 7.2 mm

$ 59.54

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2.91ct Multicolor Black Opal, Round, Opaque

11 mm (calibrated)

$ 73.52

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0.53ct Multicolor Opal, Round, Opaque

6 mm (calibrated)

$ 17.42

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3.10ctw Multicolor Opal, Square, Translucent

3.7 x 3.6 mm

$ 22.01

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1.07ctw Multicolor Opal, Oval, Opaque

7 x 5 mm (calibrated)

$ 31.97

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1.16ct Multicolor Opal, Fancy, Translucent

9.4 x 7.8 mm

$ 26.96

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Why Buy Ethiopian Opal from GemSelect?

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Overall Rating -> 8

The website was easy to use and there were a lot of good options, I was satisfied.

Posted By Brielly in January, 2026

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Overall Rating -> 10

Very good

Posted By Niska in August, 2025

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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.

Posted By Tim W in February, 2026

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Overall Rating -> 10

Very neat and to the point

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Overall Rating -> 10

I could see the actual gem I was buying

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