Australian Crystal Opal
Natural Australian crystal opal is defined by its stunning transparency and brilliant, floating play of color. Light passes entirely through these clear gemstones, illuminating internal flashes of red, orange, green, and blue that dance within the stone. Sourced primarily from Coober Pedy and Lightning Ridge, these solid stones are completely natural and untreated.
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The Clarity and Versatility of Crystal Opal
Crystal opal is highly regarded by gemologists for its clean, light background and its high level of transparency. When held to the light, the body of a fine crystal opal is clear, yet it bursts into a kaleidoscope of brilliant spectral colors upon movement. Lightning Ridge also produces black crystal opals, which feature a darker translucent body tone that intensifies the color contrast.
We highly recommend custom designers review our how to set crystal opals guide to understand the optimal backing methods for crystal material. These gemstones are highly versatile and are frequently chosen for rings, earrings, and delicate pendants. Since they do not have an ironstone or potch backing, they look spectacular in settings that allow light to enter from multiple angles. For details on how purchase values are protected, please visit the Opal Galaxy best price guarantee page and see our certificate options on the opal certificates page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is crystal opal?
Crystal opal is precious opal that is semi transparent to fully transparent, showing brilliant internal play of color.
Where is crystal opal mined?
The world’s largest producer is Coober Pedy, South Australia, with premium crystal also mined in Lightning Ridge.
Is crystal opal durable?
Like all solid opals, it has a hardness of five to six point five and requires care.
What is a black crystal opal?
It is a crystal opal with a darker translucent body tone that enhances color play.
Does Opal Galaxy provide certificates for crystal opals?
Yes, a digital certificate can be supplied for any purchase, with physical gemologist certificates available at cost.