Opals are one of the worlds most captivating gemstones. Formed naturally over millions of years, they are celebrated for their mesmerising display of kaleidoscopic colours.
Around 95% of the world's opal is mined in the outback of Australia. It is widely believed that Aboriginal people were the first to discoverer opal, and the vibrant gems hold a deep cultural and spiritual significance. Australia is regarded as the world's leading source of opal and in 1994, it was officially declared the country's national gemstone.
A symbol of creativity, hope, and individuality, opals are one of our favourite gemstones. From shimmering ocean blues to iridescent pearly whites, our collection celebrates everything that makes opals so special. Perfect for summer days, opal truly comes alive in the sunlight!
How are opals formed?
Time for a little science! Opals form naturally when groundwater rich in dissolved silica (a compound made from the two most abundant elements in the Earth's crust: silicon and oxygen) flows into cracks of the earth and rock. As the water slowly evaporates, it leaves behind microscopic spheres of silica. Over millions of years, these spheres settle into tightly packed, orderly layers, acting like a natural prism to diffract light into brilliant colours.
Precious opal is incredibly rare and therefore, highly prized!
What is lab-grown opal?
Lab-grown opals share the same chemical composition, structure, and physical properties as natural opals. In every meaningful way, they are real gemstones!
The key difference is how they are made: in laboratory conditions, resin replaces the natural water content, and the formation process is accelerated, taking months rather than millions of years.
The result is a gemstone that is highly stable, resistant to cracking, and significantly more affordable than natural opal, while still displaying the same beautiful array of colours.
At Essential, the opals we use are lab-grown, chosen for their consistency and durability, without compromising on beauty.
How should I care for my opal?
Opals require gentle care to protect their colour. Always put your opal jewellery on after applying makeup, perfumes, and hairspray. Never submerge them in harsh chemicals and safely clean them using a soft, damp cloth. You should store your opals in a cloth bag or jewellery box out of natural sunlight, as this can expose the stone and change its colour.
