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Opals are a stunning gemstone widely used in premium jewellery. Their stunning play of colour and vivid appearance make them popular with both collectors and jewellers. There are a number of other reasons for the popularity of the gemstone in jewellery, which you can read about in our guide to interesting facts about opals.
Solid opal jewellery can use white or boulder varieties of the gemstone to create a range of stunning and unique pieces. The most common opal used in jewellery is the solid opal. Read on to find out more about how they are formed, their unique visual characteristics and which one you should choose to add to your jewellery collection
What Are Black Opals?
Black opals are the rarest and most desirable varieties of the gemstone. Their dark body tone provides a stark contrast and makes the play of colour appear more pronounced. Due to their richness and intensity of colour, and the fact they are relatively uncommon, black opal jewellery is usually more expensive than other varieties of opals.
What Are White Opals?
White opals feature a milky white background with light tonings, providing a more subdued appearance to the stone. A white opal still presents a fascinating play of colour, however the soft appearance of the stone creates less contrast than a boulder opal. A white opal is also more common than a boulder opal, although outstanding specimens with these characteristics are still valuable.
What Are Boulder Opals?
Boulder opals are found in ironstone boulders. Their play of colour appears in vibrant streaks or patches, which provides a vivid comparison against the dark ironstone backing. Each boulder opal is shaped by the rock it forms in, giving every opal a unique shape and texture.
Key Differences Between Black and White Opals?
Black opals are:
- Dark in their main body tone
- Highly vivid and offer a contrasting play of colour
- Formed primarily in dark black rock
- Rare and highly valuable
In contrast, white opals are:
- Light-toned
- Softer and more subdued in their play of colour
- More reflective of light
- Formed primarily in white sandstone
- More common and affordable
Black Opals vs White Opals: How to Choose Between Them
When choosing between black and white opal jewellery, it is worth considering a number of factors, including:
- Budget: Black opal jewellery is usually more expensive due to the rarity of the gemstone. White opals and boulder opals are a more affordable option that still provide a stunning play of colour.
- Colour intensity: A black opal’s dark background enhances its play of colour, while the softer tones of a white or boulder opal lead to a more subdued appearance.
- Prestige: While a white or boulder opal is a beautiful gem, a black opal is considered the most sought-after variety of the gemstone.
Explore Boulder and White Opals at Volle Jewellery
Opals are a beautiful and visually striking gemstone in all their varieties. The differences between black, white and boulder opals are mainly caused by their varying body tones. The choice between the different types of opals will ultimately depend on which style you prefer, along with other factors including your budget and your personal preferences.
If you are interested in adding a piece of opal jewellery to your collection, Volle Jewellery can assist. We offer numerous styles of jewellery crafted using different types of Australian opals, ensuring a standout piece for your collection. Visit our flagship Sydney store to view the full collection today.
