PLEASE NOTE THAT OPAL GALAXY DO NOT SELL ANY OPAL DOUBLETS OR TRIPLETS. ALL OF THE OPALS THAT WE SELL ARE FULL, SOLID OPALS
Doublets
An Opal Doublet is a man made finished opal piece. It consists of 2 layers, or a double layer of thin materials stuck together. The bottom layer is usually a backing type of material such as black opal potch in most instances, or hard plastic o ironstone. It is typically black and acts to enhance the colours and patterns of the thin slice of opal that is fixed on top of it as the second layer in the doublet. Apposed to a solid opal, an opal doublet is affordable and can offer some absolutely stunning pattern and colours; enhanced by the black potch backing. This is why crystal opal is the most usual type of opal used in opal doublets. It takes away the translucent visual aspect and enhances the brightness and colours in the crystal.
It is important for the care of your opal doublet to not expose it to chemical or excessive water. when cleaning. To clean simply use a slightly damp cloth. Excessive water or use of chemicals can damage the resin used to stick the doublet together. Opal Doublets are often chosen to be used in ring stones, earrings and pendants where the back of the opal is not desired to be seen.
Triplets
An Opal Triplet is a man made finished opal piece. It consists of 3 layers, or a triple layer of thin materials stuck together. The bottom layer is usually a backing type material such as black opal potch in most instances, or hard plastic or ironstone. It is typically black and acts to enhance the colours and patterns of the thin slice of opal that is fixed on top of it as the second layer in the triplet. The top layer is used to seal and protect the opal slice, so is typically a glass, quartz or hard plastic type material that is see through. Opal triplets are also chosen as the glass layer protects the opal slice from being damaged. It is essential the only difference between a doublet and a triplet. Some people do not prefer the glass top of a triplet as it takes away some of the visual aspects of the opal slice. These people should opt for a doublet over a triplet. It is recommended not to wet opal triplets as the glue used may be subject to softening or loosening from water. Clean only with a slightly damp cloth and never use chemicals as this could also soften the resin/glue used.
Opal triplets are often a choice of jewellers as you get a stunning opal piece for a cheaper price than you would buying a solid opal stone without layers. You will almost always find opal triplets available in any retail jewellery store in a typical shopping centre; they are commonly used to offer affordable opals to people with smaller budgets. Opal Triplets are offered in necklace, earring, bracelet, broach, tie pie and ring settings. They have also been used in golf putting pins and souvenir keyrings.