Black Opal Stones
Black opals are dark gray to black varieties of the gemstone Opal. Dubbed the “Queen of opals,” they get their black coloring naturally from traces of carbon, iron sulfides, or iron oxides present when they formed.
Black opal stones can be precious (displaying play-of-color) or common (no color-play).
Sources for black opal stones include the US, Ethiopia, and Honduras, but the highest quality black opal stones come from Australia.
FAQs
What makes black opal unique compared to other opals?
Black opals are the rarest opal variety and display the brightest play-of-color thanks to their dark, contrasting background — like fireworks against a dark night sky.
How can I determine the quality of a black opal?
Black opal quality is based on:
- > Type of Black Opal: Common black opal stones are much less rare and valuable than precious black opals.
- > Body Tone: Darker black opals (closer to N1 on the body tone scale) are more valuable.
- > Play-of-Color Directionality: Play-of-color that’s bright from all angles (AKA non-directional or “full-face”) is best. Higher degrees of directionality lower value.
- > Play-of-Color Pattern: Rarer, more valuable color-play patterns in precious black opals include harlequin, Chinese writing, and ribbon patterns.
- > Brightness: Play-of-color brightness graded B1 is best, with progressively lower value to B7 (the dullest).
- > Clarity: Visible internal inclusions and external blemishes (e.g. crazing, cracks) can lower a black opal stone’s value.
- > Transparency: More opaque transparency is better for black opal.
- > Shape or Cut: The best black opal stone cabochons are symmetrical and at least 2 mm thick, with maximized color play and a smooth dome.
- > Natural vs Synthetic: Synthetic (lab-created) black opal stones are less valuable.
- > Treatments: Many opals aren’t naturally black but treated to look black, significantly lowering their value in comparison.
How can I verify the authenticity of a black opal stone?
Reputable gem labs like GIA can verify if your black opal stone is natural, synthetic, or treated. AGL can determine the origin of your opal. Always buy from reputable sellers and look for a certificate of authenticity when purchasing a black opal stone.
Are there different grades of black opals?
Yes, the most well-established opal grades are from IGS:
- > Below Commercial: Least valuable with visible inclusions
- > Commercial: Dull brightness; Some visible inclusions
- > Good: Good brightness; Minor inclusions
- > Fine: Great brightness; No visible inclusions to the naked eye
- > Extra Fine: Brilliant brightness; No inclusions visible under 10x magnification
What are the key characteristics to look for in a black fire opal?
“Fire opal” is a different opal variety, but you may see the term “black fire opal” for precious Australian black opals with fiery red color-play.
Most precious opals display cool-toned hues, whereas red color flashes are rarer, making “black fire opal” a valuable subtype.
Where do the best Australian black opals come from?
Almost all black opal stones come from deposits in New South Wales, Australia. The largest, most famous source of high-quality Australian black opals is Lightning Ridge.
What types of black opals are available for sale on your site?
We offer an array of black opals in different sizes, shapes, and patterns. You can find black opals up to 500 carats with lengths up to 50mm or larger. We have black opal stones available as rough, cabochons, carvings, and polished stones.
What should I consider when purchasing a black opal for jewelry?
We recommend a doublet or triplet black opal stone in frequently worn jewelry. They’re more durable and affordable than solid opal. A more vulnerable piece like a black opal ring should have protective settings. Avoid buying opals sold in water — the absorbed water changes their carat weight and hides cracks.
Do you provide certification for the black opals sold on your site?
Our Sheriff Program lets you audit any of our hundreds of black opal stones to check that the listing is correct. If you would like a certificate from a gemstone laboratory then please contact the seller directly to arrange this.
Can I return or exchange a black opal if I am not satisfied?
Yes, you can return it for a refund or exchange within 7 days. View each seller’s rates and policies for return shipping under their “extended profile” on the Verified Sellers page.
How does the pricing of your black opals compare to other retailers?
Our black opal stones are priced competitively since this is a marketplace and it is easy to compare the prices from sellers all over the world. Natural Australian black opal prices from about $50 to $5,000 per carat depending on the quality.
What is the process for buying a black opal from your site?
Peruse our black opal category page to check out the thousands of black opals available for sale or auction. In this category you will find mostly Catalogue (Buy it Now) items that you can add to your cart and purchase straight away. Jut look for the Green add to cart button.
If you see an listing that does not have a Green add to cart button, but rather a auction hammer, then this is an auction item and you can place a bid to win it.
You can rest easy knowing our black opal stones are industry-vetted with certifications of authenticity. Our Verified Seller program includes rigorous quality control and you can audit any item with a certified, third-party gemologist through our free Sheriff Program.
Further Reading
Opals
Gemstones
Jewelry
Coins
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