How To Buy Opals May 2026

Too perfect. Patterns look "snakeskin" or repetitive.

Look at the side. Straight, glued lines mean it's a composite. Pattern and Shape The way the color is arranged affects the price. Harlequin: Large, distinct squares of color. Rarest. Pinfire: Tiny dots of color. Common. Flash: Large blocks of color that blink on and off. how to buy opals

Look for a high "cabochon" (dome). It shows off the color better. 🚩 Watch for Red Flags Too perfect

Milky base. Softer, more feminine appearance. how to buy opals

Some opals absorb water and lose color temporarily. If you'd like to narrow this down, let me know: What is your budget range ? Do you have a favorite color (Fire red, ocean blue, etc.)?