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Preserving the Magic: How to Care for Your Opals
Opals are more than just jewellery—they’re natural works of art, formed over millions of years. With their captivating play of colour, opals deserve care that matches their beauty. Proper maintenance ensures your opal jewellery remains as stunning as the day you first wore it, becoming a lasting symbol of elegance and charm.
Follow these simple yet effective tips to preserve your opal’s natural radiance and keep it in pristine condition for years to come. Whether you’re wearing your opals daily or storing them for special occasions, a little attention can go a long way in protecting these timeless treasures.
Solid Opals
Unlike doublets or triplets, solid opals are entirely natural and not layered with other materials. At Ikecho, we only stock solid opals, ensuring durability and quality in every piece.
- Durability: Opals are similar in hardness to glass, so they require gentle handling. Remove your opal jewellery during activities that might expose it to scratches or impact, such as household chores or sports.
- Myth Busting: It’s a common misconception that opals are damaged by water. This is only true for doublets and triplets—not solid opals. Solid opals are perfectly fine in water.
- Temperature Sensitivity: Avoid exposing your opals to extreme dryness, rapid temperature changes, or very high heat, as this can cause cracking.
Cleaning Your Opal
- Gentle Cleaning: Wash your solid opals with a mild detergent in warm water, using a soft toothbrush or cloth to remove dirt.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Steer clear of bleach, abrasive cleaners, or any harsh chemicals.
- No Ultrasonics: Never use ultrasonic cleaners on opals, as the vibrations can cause cracks.
- Professional Polishing: If your opal becomes scratched or loses its shine after years of wear, a professional opal cutter can restore its lustre. They can also check the security of the setting to ensure your opal stays safe.
Storing Your Opals
Proper storage can help maintain your opal’s beauty, especially for long periods:
- Short-Term Storage: Store your opals in a padded cloth bag to protect them from scratches.
- Long-Term Storage: For extended storage, place your opal in cotton wool with a few drops of water and seal it in a plastic bag. This isn’t to soak the stone but to maintain humidity and prevent dehydration in very dry conditions, such as a zero-humidity safe.
With these simple care tips, your opal jewellery will remain a treasured piece for generations to come. Browse our collection today and bring the beauty of natural opals into your life.