These fiery Ethiopian opals from Ethiopia are justifiably famous: The most sought after in the world are their brilliance and kaleidoscopic play of colour. These Ethiopian opal stones are famous for their unique beauty and charm, and a real beauty and charm to any jewelry collection to own.
While Ethiopian opals are popular and great gems to purchase, however, they have also become quite popular, and so have their imitations and poorer quality stones. If you are wondering how to buy Ethiopian opals online, you have landed at the right place, as this guide helps you to know everything important and ensures that you are investing in a real and quality gemstone.
The Allure of Ethiopian Opals
Ethiopian opals are special for the bright play of color, a term that refers to that indescribable phenomenon where light hitting the opal’s surface seems to dance lusciously across its surface as a rainbow, it moves and shifts, and iridescens. Ethiopian opals are generally transparent and considerably more colourful and vivid than the Australian opal stones.
Ethiopia’s Wollo Province is where it is mined and where it’s considered a real beauty because it is unique to those parts. They are perfect for all ranges of fine gemstone jewelry: rings, pendants, and necklaces because their natural charm shines brightly.
However, it’s the same characteristics that make Ethiopian opals so desirable that make them a perfect target for counterfeiting — when shopping for opals online, it’s imperative to have an eye for quality.
The Different Types of Ethiopian Opals
Before diving into the buying process, it’s crucial to understand the different types of Ethiopian opals, as this knowledge will help you identify genuine stones:
Hydrophane Opals
The most common type of Ethiopian opal is hydrophane opal, well known for being able to absorb water. They help play color with these gems, but they are dangerous if they are mishandled.
Black Ethiopian Opals
There is also a very dark base color to them, making the bright play-of-color even more so. These are also known as ethiopian black opal.
Crystal Opals
Nor are these highly transparent, displaying beautiful, bright colors, which has been driving people to collect them in the jewelry market.
Knowing these will help you know what questions to ask when viewing these stones online.
Tips to Ensure Authenticity When Buying Online
When purchasing Ethiopian opals online, it’s essential to follow these tips to ensure you’re getting an authentic gemstone:
1. Check the Seller’s Reputation
- Search for sellers who are established and have a strong online presence with good reviews.
- Confirm that the seller is an opal (or gemstone) specialist; it indicates a lot more expertise.
- Confirm their ability to give you detailed facts about where the opal originates and how good its quality is.
2. Request Certification of Authenticity
- Always ask for a gemological certificate from a reputable lab to confirm the Ethiopian opal meaning and its natural origin.
- Avoid sellers who refuse to disclose the certification information if asked.
3. Examine Product Descriptions and Images
- Check for clear, good pictures of opal from multiple angles. This helps determine the play-of-color and overall appearance.
- Read the product description carefully. It should specify the type of opal (e.g., black opal, white opal, orange opal), carat weight, and whether it has been treated.
4. Be Wary of Prices That Are Too Good to Be True
- Be cautious of low prices, especially when they seem too good to be true; Ethiopian fire opals are valuable gemstones.
- Compare the price range across several sellers.
5. Understand the Return Policy
- Ensure the seller offers a clear return policy, allowing you to return the gemstone if it doesn’t meet your expectations.
- Read the terms and conditions thoroughly to avoid surprises.
Identifying Imitated or Low-Quality Opals
It’s important to identify fake or poor-quality opals. Here are some red flags to watch out for:
- Perfectly Uniform Colors: Authentic Ethiopian opals exhibit shifting colors with movement, like the play-of-color seen in natural gems. Stones with uniform and static colors are likely synthetic.
- Plastic-like Appearance: If the opal looks too much like resin-based fake imitation, it is likely not authentic.
- No Transparency or Depth: Genuine Ethiopian opals usually have some depth and translucence. Stones that appear opaque and flat may not be authentic.
Caring for Your Ethiopian Opals
If you now have an authentic Ethiopian opal, taking good care of it will keep it beautiful. Ethiopian opals are hydrophane (meaning they absorb water), which can temporarily change their appearance.
- Avoid exposing your Ethiopian fire opal to water, harsh chemicals, or extreme temperature changes.
- Store it in a soft pouch rather than a box to prevent scratches.
The Joy of Owning Ethiopian Opals
Buying an Ethiopian opal stone means much more than having another gemstone in your collection; you are buying a piece of natural art. These gemstones are unique – no two opals are alike. Set in a fine gemstone ring or worn as a pendant, they bring with them a vibrant, otherworldly beauty that captivates and enchants.
Conclusion: How to Find Authentic Ethiopian Opals Online?
Ethiopian opals are mesmerizing, but the world of Ethiopian opals is as well. With the appropriate knowledge and watchful eye, you can safely invest in an opal that will bring happiness and beauty for years.
If you are ready to find a reliable source of Ethiopian opals, visit GemstonesForSale. Committed to quality and authenticity, they offer a wide range of beautiful Ethiopian opal stones with something for everyone and every budget. Start your journey into the fascinating world of Ethiopian black opals today and browse them at GemstonesForSale!
