![]() ![]() The stacks align into a flawless cubic structure that diffracts light and exudes a fiery display of vibrant colors, and this is the feature we describe as “play of color.”īlack opal uniquely contains trace elements of common opal ( potch) left intact on the back of the gemstone to best contrast the play of color. What gives black opal its signature colors? Opals are composed of stacked hydrated silica spheres. So, what is it? Black opal is hydrated silica containing anywhere between 6-21% water. The stone is such a cornerstone of Australian culture that it was officially named New South Wales’s state gemstone in 2008. The most valued opals showcase an optical phenomenon called “play of color,” which is a feature only seen in opal gemstones.Īlmost all black opal comes from Australia, but other locations source the gem, too. Opal is a colorful class of gemstones that range in color from white to orange to black. What is Black Opal?īlack opal is a variety of opal that shares the same chemical composition and characteristics as all opals. ![]() In this complete guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the properties that make black opal a gemstone in a class all its own. Is black opal rare? And what makes black opal special compared to other opal types and gemstones? The contrast between the dark and bright makes black opal one of the most prized gemstones in the world, giving them high price points and global notoriety. Often, black opal is the most highly valued type of opal because this dark base color allows the stone’s “fire” or “play of color” to be most illuminated and brilliant. Essentially, black opal describes any opal with a dark body tone. You’ve heard of opal gemstones, but did you know they come in various colors? Black opal is the type of opal known for its dark to black body tone (or base color), ranging from dark gray to dark green to black.
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