Opal: The Fiery Heart of Australia
An hinged, 18ct gold bangle designed with the client’s repurposed white opal and diamonds.
Introducing Opal: Australia's Most Unique and Captivating Gemstone
The opal is more than just a gemstone; it’s a kaleidoscope of colour, a miniature galaxy held within your hand, and the official national gemstone of Australia. Unlike any other mineral, its famous "play-of-colour"—the flashing spectral hues that dance across its surface—makes it a truly spectacular choice for a unique piece of bespoke jewellery.
At Sara Handmade Jewellery in Kiama, we believe a stone this unique should be paired with a design that tells your story. We specialise in sourcing the most beautiful opals, crafting them into modern treasures for clients across the NSW South Coast, Sydney, and Canberra.
A statement opal ring featuring a stunning black opal and diamonds that were all remodelled from the client’s heirlooms.
The Australian Legend: Where Opal Finds its Unique Fire
Australia is the undisputed global capital of this breathtaking mineraloid, supplying around 95% of the world’s precious opals. Formed when silica and water combine and settle into sedimentary rock crevices, the opal’s incredible optical effect is caused by tiny, orderly spheres of silica diffracting light.
Australia is home to several distinct varieties, each offering a unique character:
Black Opal: Mined primarily in Lightning Ridge, NSW, this is the rarest and most valuable variety, prized for its dark body tone that dramatically enhances the play-of-colour.
Boulder Opal: Found in Queensland, this type features veins of opal still attached to its ironstone or sandstone host rock, creating fascinating, organic patterns.
White Opal: Commonly found in Coober Pedy, South Australia, this variety has a light or milky body tone.
When you’re seeking an Australian Opal for a custom-made jewellery piece, Sara’s two decades of expertise ensures you receive a stone of exceptional quality, ethically sourced and perfectly suited to your design vision.
A timeless, black opal pendant with diamond and two-toned gold setting.
Symbolism, Lore, and Why Opal is the Ultimate Custom-Made Statement
For centuries, the opal has been associated with powerful symbolism. The ancient Greeks believed opals granted their owners the gift of prophecy, while Europeans traditionally viewed the gem as a symbol of hope, purity, and truth. Its ability to display every colour on the spectrum led it to be known as the "Queen of Gems."
You may have heard the old superstition that opals bring bad luck. This notion is actually a fictional fabrication, traceable to an 1829 Gothic novel by Sir Walter Scott. Historically, the gem was prized by royalty, with Queen Victoria openly collecting and gifting opals, helping to permanently dispel the myth—especially after the discovery of magnificent Black Opal fields in Australia.
The unique appearance of every opal means they are naturally suited to a one-of-a-kind creation. If you’re looking for opal jewellery or seeking to create a vibrant, personal statement piece, an opal allows for an unparalleled level of individuality.
A collection of sentimental jewellery and gemstones ready to be repurposed into a new design.
Caring for Your Precious Opal and Considering Remodelling
Opal measures between 5 and 6.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it softer than diamonds or sapphires. Due to its water content, it requires specific care to keep it sparkling for generations:
Avoid Heat and Dehydration: Do not store opals near direct heat or in very dry conditions, as this can cause cracking (known as 'crazing').
Gentle Cleaning: Clean your opal jewellery gently with a soft cloth and warm, mild soapy water. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals.
Protective Settings: Opals benefit from protective settings when used in daily wear rings.
We often work with clients seeking jewellery remodelling, transforming older, perhaps unworn, heirloom opal pieces into new, modern designs—giving the sentimental stones a second life. We can guide you on the best metal and setting styles to ensure your opal is both beautiful and protected.
FAQs About Opal
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Yes, but it requires sensible care. Due to its moderate hardness (5-6.5), it should be protected from harsh knocks, chemicals, and extreme heat.
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Australian Black Opal, primarily from Lightning Ridge, is generally the most valuable due to its dark body tone which highlights the vivid play-of-colour.
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Opal is the official birthstone for October, symbolising fidelity, hope, and purity.
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Yes, we specialise in jewellery remodelling and restoration, often giving new life to antique or inherited opal pieces while preserving their sentimental value.
Ready to create your own tourmaline masterpiece?
Book a complimentary consultation at our Kiama studio or online and let’s bring your vision to life.
