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Opals have long been loved by jewelry lovers and collectors with their fantastic play of colors and mysterious patterns. Opal rings date back to ancient times, and this delicate gemstone was loved by different cultures. These rings are an elegant and gorgeous accessory that can add a touch of glamor and sophistication to your overall look. But can you wear opal rings every day without worrying about damaging them? In this blog, we will delve into understanding opals, offering opal ring designs and care tips to ensure that your ring remains radiant for years to come.
Understanding Opal
Opals are composed of water and silicon dioxide and are precious gemstones that naturally form over millions of years. In other words, opal is a stone solidified from tiny silica spheres. Its unpredictable play of colors, known as opalescence, is determined by its unique internal structure. When light enters opals it encounters silica spheres, which diffract the light, creating a stunning and vibrant play of colors. It’s no wonder that opals are favored by many people.
As mentioned above, opals contain water in their composition, with their water content ranging from 3% to 21% of their own weight. However, the water content within opals affects their stability and durability. Opals with lower water content are typically more stable than those with higher water content.
The durability of opal is a popular topic for those who are looking to buy an opal ring. The Mohs scale is a simple and effective measure way to evaluate whether opals are durable enough. Based on opal’s score on the Mohs scale of hardness, it is a fairly fragile stone that can easily be scratched and damaged by everyday wear and tear.
Can You Wear Opal Rings Every Day?
Absolutely. In terms of opal durability, it is essential to take precautions that ensure that opal rings retain their natural beauty for years to come. With proper care, they can not only add a touch of glamour to your attire but also become heirlooms of generations to come.
Tips For Your Opal Ring
Gently scrub with a very soft cloth or soft brush and gentle jewelry cleaner to remove any dirt. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners as they can cause cracks, chips, or other problems with the stone. It is the best way to soak the ring for a few minutes in a shallow bowl with warm soapy water. Then use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub the surface of the stone and metal setting. Finally, rinse thoroughly and pat it dry with a soft cloth to remove any moisture. Avoid storing your opal in an environment that is too dry or humid. Opal is porous, which means it absorbs moisture from its surroundings like a sponge, causing the stone to become unstable or even crack. Instead, an opal in a dry environment is not only more fragile but may lose its natural luster and radiance. Avoid exposing your opal ring to high temperatures or direct sunlight for a long time, and it is best to store it in a soft cloth pouch or a separate jewelry box to it from damage.
Choosing The Right Opal Ring
Even though opal is a relatively delicate gemstone, there are certain designs that can increase the durability of an opal ring. Consider choosing supportive and protective settings for the opal, such as bezels, halos, or raised prong settings, which can maximize the life of the stone. Also, opals are available in a range of colors, from understated whites and delicate pinks to vibrant blues. Incorporate an opal ring into your daily look to highlight your temperament and elevate your overall appearance. For casual looks, petite opal pieces are delicate and understated and can be layered with other jewelry to create unique jewelry sets. For special occasions, opt to wear bold opal rings that will stand out from the crowd without overpowering them. If wearing an opal ring every day makes you feel uneasy and nervous, consider incorporating a lab opal as the center stone for your engagement ring. Lab opals offer all the charm of natural opals and are an affordable and eco-friendly alternative. Then, you can enjoy the beauty of opals without the concerns.
Conclusion
You can wear an opal ring every day as a statement to show off your personality. Understanding the properties of opals and implementing the right maintenance will make your opal jewelry benefit without harm. If you lead an active lifestyle and a durable and eco-friendly ring is important to you, using a lab opal ring is a good way to enhance your looks. Enjoy the magic of opal rings and make it a cherished piece of your jewelry collection.