An opal triplet is a slice of opal sandwiched between a dark backing and a clear top. They fall under the category of “assembled” or “composite” opal varieties like doublets or mosaic opals.
Some of the benefits of a triplet over a solid opal include protection from scratches, enhancement of the opal’s play-of-color, and a lower price point than similar-looking solid black opals.
FAQs
What is a triplet opal?
Opal triplets are composite stones made up of three layers glued together. From bottom to top, these are:
- Backing: Always dark; May be synthetic material (e.g. Vitrolite glass, resin, plastic) or natural material (e.g. ironstone, dark common opal, onyx)
- Opal: Very thin slice (~0.1 to 3 mm) of precious light opal
- Cap: Transparent, colorless, cabochon-like dome; May be non-gem material (e.g. resin, glass, plastic) or another colorless gem (e.g. quartz, synthetic spinel, synthetic sapphire)
How is an opal triplet made?
The first step is getting or cutting a very thin slice of precious light opal. Next, the backing is prepared — cut and/or dyed. Then, the opal slice is glued (often with epoxy and resin bond) to the backing.
From there, the opal side is flattened and thinned down using a grinding wheel to prevent cloudiness. Then, a cap in a corresponding size is glued onto the top of the opal. Lastly, the opal and backing are trimmed with a fine saw to match the dome, and the backing is sanded smooth.
How do opal triplets differ from opal doublets and solid opals?
Solid opals are 100 percent opal, top to bottom. Doublets and triplets are composites, so they’re bonded to other materials. Doublets are different from triplets because doublets have only two layers: a dark backing and a thicker piece of opal on top. Doublets look more natural than triplets but opal triplets are often more durable.
Are opal triplets considered real opals?
Partly, yes. Opal triplets contain a slice of real opal (unless it’s a synthetic opal slice) but they’re technically composite stones as they also have separate pieces glued to the opal.
Why are opal triplets more affordable than solid opals?
Opal triplets have lower prices because they use less opal — just a thin slice — and can imitate the look of black precious opal, which is very rare and valuable in natural, solid form.
Are opal triplets durable enough for everyday wear?
It depends on the jewelry and setting. They’re fine for pendants and brooches, but more vulnerable options like rings or bracelets should have protective settings.
Can I use an opal triplet in an engagement ring?
You can, but it depends on the assembly materials. If the top dome is a material like clear quartz, it will be more resistant to scratches than solid opal. However, opal triplets can be prone to damage with frequent, everyday wear.
If you do get an opal triplet engagement ring, be sure the triplet has a durable setting — a solid backing with a bezel, four-prong, raised-prong, or cage setting is best — and know the proper care procedures.
How do I care for and clean an opal triplet?
Clean these gems by gently wiping them down with a soft, damp cloth. Do NOT soak triplets — water can break down the glue. Remove opal triplet rings before cleaning, swimming, showering, gardening, or doing any intense manual tasks (like moving furniture) where the ring could get scratched.
Store these stones separately from other gems in something soft — e.g. a velvet pouch or fabric-lined box — away from humidity or extreme temperature changes.
How can I identify an opal triplet?
A triplet should always be labeled as such. But if it’s not, some signs that a “solid opal” is actually an opal triplet are:
- > A thin line between the opal and the base (where the glue is)
- > A glassy luster instead of greasy or resinous
- > No play-of-color from a side view or the color doesn’t travel up to the top
What should I look for when buying an opal triplet?
First, check if the opal is natural or synthetic. Synthetic opals have a distinctive “snakeskin” pattern whereas natural opals have a “brushstroke” pattern. Knowing the difference is key to the value, as synthetic opals are much more affordable.
In terms of quality, the opal should have vibrant color-play with multiple color flashes. The dome should be clear with no bubbles or scratches and a good polish.
Of course, you should always buy opal triplets from trusted sellers with industry expertise. We’ve been in the opal mining and selling business for decades. We make sure you only get the best opals at the best prices through our rigorous Verified Sellers vetting process, competitive auction pricing, and free third-party auditing through our Opal Sheriff program.
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