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Fine Opal Jewelry

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Victorian 0.50 Carat Opal and 0.33 Carat Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Cocktail Ring
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
ring; part of our diverse collection of Victorian jewellery This fine and impressive antique opal ring
Category

Antique 1890s Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, Yellow Gold, Silver

0.75 Carat White Opal and 0.15 Carat Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Drop Earrings
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
detract from the true representation of this fine example of antique opal jewellery. Opal Quality: Colour
Category

Antique Early 1900s Unknown Victorian Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

9.25 carats, Ethiopian Opal, Blue Pink Sapphires Diamonds Cocktail Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Jewelry ✦ Gemstone: Ethiopian Opal ✦ Gemstone Cut: Trillion cabochon ✦ Gemstone Weight: 9.25 ct. Approx
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, Blue Sapphire, Pink Sapphire, 18k Gold

Set in 18K Gold, Ethiopian Opal, Freshwater Pearls Diamonds Cocktail Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
). The Ring is made in US Size 6.5 and can be changed on request. ✦ Handmade / Handcrafted Fine Jewelry
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, Freshwater Pearl, 18k Gold

Set in 18K Gold, 7.35 carats Ethiopian Opal, Black Onyx Diamonds Stud Earrings
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
/ Handcrafted Fine Jewelry ✦ Gemstone: Ethiopian Opal ✦ Gemstone Cut: Oval Cabochon ✦ Gemstone Weight: 7.35 ct
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Art Deco Stud Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Onyx, Opal, 18k Gold

Vintage Opal 1.10 Carat Ruby and Diamond Yellow Gold Cocktail Ring
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
A fine and impressive vintage 0.65 carat opal, 1.10 carat ruby and 0.22 carat diamond, 18 karat
Category

Vintage 1980s Unknown Cocktail Rings

Materials

Ruby, Opal, Diamond, Yellow Gold, White Gold, 18k Gold, Gold

Set in 18K Gold, Ethiopian Opal, Ceylon Multi Sapphires Diamonds Cocktail Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
changed on request. ✦ Handmade / Handcrafted Fine Jewelry ✦ Gemstone: Ethiopian Opal ✦ Gemstone Cut
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, Sapphire, 18k Gold

Set in 18K Gold, Ethiopian Opal, Multi Sapphires, Tanzanite Diamonds Dome Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
made in US Size 6 and can be changed on request. ✦ Handmade / Handcrafted Fine Jewelry ✦ Gemstone
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, Sapphire, Tanzanite, 18k Gold, White Gold

Garrards Fire Opal, Diamond and Platinum Drop Earrings and Negligee Pendant Set
Located in London, GB
A Garrards fire opal and diamond drop earrings and negligee pendant set. The earrings have old
Category

Vintage 1920s British Art Deco Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Fire Opal, Platinum

29.59 ct Ethiopian Opal, Pink Sapphire Diamond Cocktail Ring/ Pendant Necklace
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
request. Features: ✦ Handmade / Handcrafted Fine Jewelry ✦ Gemstone: Ethiopian Opal ✦ Gemstone Cut
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Opal, Pink Sapphire, 18k Gold

Natural Australian Boulder Opal and Diamond Pendant Top Made in 18K Gold PLAT
Located in Tokyo, JP
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Established in 1994, Rita Fine Jewelry has been making beautiful jewelry for the past 25 year...
Category

20th Century Japanese Modern Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Opal, Platinum, 18k Gold

Set in 18K Gold, 6.99 carats Ethiopian Opal, Rubellite Diamonds Cocktail Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Size 6 and can be changed on request. ✦ Handmade / Handcrafted Fine Jewelry ✦ Gemstone: Ethiopian
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, 18k Gold

Set in 18K Gold, Ethiopian Opal, Ceylon Multi Sapphires Diamond Cocktail Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Fine Jewelry ✦ Gemstone: Ethiopian Opal ✦ Gemstone Cut: Cabochon ✦ Gemstone Weight: 13.86 ct. Approx
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, Sapphire, 18k Gold

7.02 Carat Natural Caribbean Water Opal and Diamond Ring Made in 18K Gold
Located in Tokyo, JP
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Established in 1994, Rita Fine Jewelry has been making beautiful jewelry for the past 25 year...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Japanese Modern Dome Rings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, 18k Gold

Set in 18K Gold, Ethiopian Opal, Emeralds, Tanzanites Diamonds Cocktail Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
made in US Size 6 and can be changed on request. ✦ Handmade / Handcrafted Fine Jewelry ✦ Gemstone
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Emerald, Opal, Tanzanite, 18k Gold

Set in 18K Gold, Ethiopian Opal, Emerald, Rubellite Diamonds Cocktail Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Jewelry ✦ Gemstone: Ethiopian Opal ✦ Gemstone Cut: Cabochon ✦ Gemstone Weight: 8.03 ct. Approx
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Emerald, Opal, Rubelite, 18k Gold

Set in 18K Gold, 21.06 carats Ethiopian Opal, Emeralds Diamonds Cocktail Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
request. ✦ Handmade / Handcrafted Fine Jewelry ✦ Gemstone: Ethiopian Opal ✦ Gemstone Cut: Oval shaped
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Emerald, Opal, 18k Gold

Set in 18K white Gold, Ethiopian Opal, Zambian Emeralds Diamonds Cocktail RIng
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
6 and can be changed on request. ✦ Handmade / Handcrafted Fine Jewelry ✦ Gemstone: Ethiopian Opal
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Emerald, Opal, White Gold, 18k Gold

Set in 18K Gold, Ethiopian Opals, Black Onyx Diamonds Art Deco Stud Earrings
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
/ Handcrafted Fine Jewelry ✦ Gemstone: Ethiopian Opal ✦ Gemstone Cut: Cabochon ✦ Gemstone Weight: 4.34 ct
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Art Deco Stud Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Onyx, Opal, 18k Gold

Rene Boivin Paris 18Kt Yellow Gold Bracelet 60 Cts of Natural Fire Opals Woods
By René Boivin
Located in Miami, FL
Asprey Group and still produces very fine jewelry. Note: This is a unique one of one piece, serially
Category

Early 2000s French Modernist Link Bracelets

Materials

Opal, Fire Opal, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Set in 18K Gold, Ethiopian Opal, Black Onyx Diamonds Art Deco Dome Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
). The Ring is made in US Size 6 and can be changed on request. ✦ Handmade / Handcrafted Fine Jewelry
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Art Deco Dome Rings

Materials

Opal, Onyx, Diamond, 18k Gold

Set in 18K Gold, Ethiopian Opal, Blue Sapphires Diamonds Cocktail Dome Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
. ✦ Handmade / Handcrafted Fine Jewelry ✦ Gemstone: Ethiopian Opal ✦ Gemstone Cut: Shield Cut Cabochon
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, Blue Sapphire, 18k Gold

Set in 18K Gold, Ethiopian Opal, Mother of Pearl, Pink Sapphires Diamonds Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
. ✦ Handmade / Handcrafted Fine Jewelry ✦ Gemstone: Ethiopian Opal ✦ Gemstone Cut: Cabochon ✦ Gemstone
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Art Deco Cocktail Rings

Materials

Pink Sapphire, Pearl, Opal, Diamond, 18k Gold

BADEN FOSS 1950 Cocktail Ring In 14Kt Gold With Australian Opal And Diamonds
Located in Miami, FL
country. Like all fine things, gem opal is exceedingly rare. Much of the world's precious opal is mined in
Category

Vintage 1950s American Modernist Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, 14k Gold

Luxury Essentials Opal and Diamond Stud Earrings
By Ri Noor
Located in Houston, TX
Rinoor Fine Jewelry's iconic Opal and Diamond Stud Earrings stand as a testament to the brand's
Category

2010s Stud Earrings

20th Century Jade Fine and Precious Stones Metal 18 Karat Gold Birds Pendant
Located in Poitiers, FR
variety of semi-precious and precious stones : pearls, opals, garnets, rubies, etc. Two motifs
Category

Early 20th Century Art Nouveau Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Ruby, Opal, Jade, Garnet, Natural Pearl, Pearl, Metal, Yellow Gold, 18k ...

Silvia Furmanovich Dangle Drop Earrings 18Kt Gold 18.61 Ctw In Diamonds Gems
By Silvia Furmanovich
Located in Miami, FL
, SI-1 Clarity. Fire Opal: Mount in four-prongs settings, with 2 pear faceted cut (15 x 9 x 6 mm) of
Category

1990s Brazilian Modernist Dangle Earrings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, Topaz, Blue Topaz, Fire Opal, Gold, 18k Go...

Antique French Diamond and White Gold Full Eternity Ring, Circa 1920
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
of our diverse diamond jewellery and estate jewelry collections. This impressive vintage diamond
Category

Vintage 1920s French Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, 15k Gold, White Gold

Tivon Fine Jewellery Opulent Opal and Diamond Necklace
By TIVON FINE JEWELLERY
Located in Borehamwood, GB
Opulence! This gorgeous pendant has been crafted in 18ct White Gold and set with glittering fine
Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Modern Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Opal, 18k Gold

Ico the Bird Fine Jewelry Fire Opal Stacking Ring 22k Gold
By Ico the Bird Fine Jewelry
Located in Los Angeles, CA
The 22k gold ring features a bright orange 6mm Fire Opal. Wear this alone or in combination with
Category

2010s North American Artisan Band Rings

Materials

Opal, Fire Opal, 22k Gold

Ico the Bird Fine Jewelry Sapphire Stacking Ring 22k Gold
By Ico the Bird Fine Jewelry
Located in Los Angeles, CA
The 22k gold ring features a deep, intense natural blue sapphire. Wear this alone or in combination with other rings for a pop of color. The sapphire is 6.65mm and .80 carats. Sapp...
Category

2010s North American Artisan Band Rings

Materials

Opal, Fire Opal, 22k Gold

Bushfire Opal, Rubellite and Diamond Duette Ring
By Tayma Fine Jewellery
Located in Hong Kong, HK
: 1 fine opal 13.57cts 1 pink tourmaline 2.57cts 46 diamonds 0.48ct Ring size: US 7 Stamp
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Hong Kong Cocktail Rings

Materials

Opal, Tourmaline, White Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Floating Islands Collection - Opal and diamond ring
By Tayma Fine Jewellery
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Dramatic opal ring, hand made, one of a kind with micro set diamonds. Flashes of turquoise and
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Hong Kong Cocktail Rings

Materials

Opal, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Floating Islands Collection - Opal and diamond detachable earrings
By Tayma Fine Jewellery
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Spectacular opal drop earrings, perfect for day to night, as the drops are detachable. You can wear
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Hong Kong Drop Earrings

Materials

Opal, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

African Mandarin Orange Garnet, Moonstone, Fire Opal and Diamond Earring
By Tayma Fine Jewellery
Located in Hong Kong, HK
faceted moonstones, Mexican fire opals and diamonds 'Sunset' earrings. Gemstone weight: 2 Mandarin
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Hong Kong Stud Earrings

Materials

Garnet, Moonstone, Opal, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

0.65 Carat Fire Opal South Sea Pearl Diamond 18 Karat Gold Pendant Necklace
By Exquisite Fine Jewellery
Located in Jaipur, Jaipur
look of this jewel. Art of gifting: the Jewel is presented with 'Exquisite Fine Jewellery' signature
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Pendant Necklaces

Materials

White Diamond, Opal, South Sea Pearl, Diamond, Fire Opal, 18k Gold, Yell...

64.66 Carat Pink Opal Ruby Diamond 18 Karat Yellow Gold Teardrops Earrings
By Exquisite Fine Jewellery
Located in Jaipur, Jaipur
with 'Exquisite Fine Jewellery' signature Jewelry Box, hand wrapped in a beautiful floral silk pouch
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Dangle Earrings

Materials

White Diamond, Opal, Ruby, Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Sapphire Emerald Opal Rubelite White Diamond Gold Phoenix Pendant Necklace
By TIVON FINE JEWELLERY
Located in Borehamwood, GB
, multi-colour Sapphires, fine Emerald, Opal and Rubelite Tourmaline. Double 18ct 18 inch chain included
Category

2010s British Art Nouveau Pendant Necklaces

Materials

White Diamond, Emerald, Multi-gemstone, Opal, Rubelite, Sapphire, Blue S...

Australian Black Opal Bracelet on Handmade 18k Matte Gold Chain
By Loriann Stevenson Fine Jewelry
Located in Santa Monica, CA
This 6.0ct Australian Black Opal is Bezel Set in Matte 18k Yellow Gold with .10ct Diamond Accent
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Chain Bracelets

Materials

Opal, Black Opal, Gold, 18k Gold

Tivon 18ct Yellow Gold pave set Opal Pink Sapphire White Diamond Cocktail Ring
By TIVON FINE JEWELLERY
Located in Borehamwood, GB
Opulence! This gorgeous ring has been crafted in 18ct Yellow Gold and set with glittering fine
Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Modern Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, Pink Sapphire, 18k Gold

Opal Tsavorite Diamond Earrings Accented in 18 Karat Gold With Black Rhodium
By Exquisite Fine Jewellery
Located in Jaipur, Jaipur
Fine Jewellery' signature Jewelry Box, hand wrapped in a beautiful floral silk pouch bag. Stamped and
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Byzantine Drop Earrings

Materials

White Diamond, Opal, Tsavorite, Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Rhodium,...

2.48ct Winton Australia Crystal Opal in 18k Matte Yellow Gold
By Loriann Stevenson Fine Jewelry
Located in Santa Monica, CA
These beautiful 2.48ct Winton Australia Crystal Opal Drop Earrings are set in 18k Matte Yellow
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Contemporary Drop Earrings

Materials

Crystal, Opal, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Crystal Opal and Diamond Necklace on Handmade 18k Gold Chain
By Loriann Stevenson Fine Jewelry
Located in Santa Monica, CA
This 1.88ct Australian Crystal Opal Necklace is bezel set with .25ct vs quality bezel set Round
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Contemporary Drop Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Opal, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Opal Pendant Necklace on 18k Yellow Gold Handmade Chain with Toggle
By Loriann Stevenson Fine Jewelry
Located in Santa Monica, CA
This 5.20ct Australian Crystal Opal is Bezel Set in 18K Yellow Gold. .08ct Pave vs quality Diamonds
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Link Necklaces

Materials

Opal, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Boulder Opal Ring with Diamond Baguettes in 18k Matte Yellow Gold
By Loriann Stevenson Fine Jewelry
Located in Santa Monica, CA
Handmade 5.30ct boulder opal band with .20ct diamond baguette accents in 18k matte yellow gold
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Contemporary Fashion Rings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Coober Pedy Opal and Diamond Pave Ring in 18k Yellow Gold
By Loriann Stevenson Fine Jewelry
Located in Santa Monica, CA
2.55ct Coober Pedy Australian Crystal Opal with .58ct vs quality Diamond Pave Double Halo and Band
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Australian Opal Handmade 18k Yellow Gold Chain Link Bracelet with Toggle Clasp
By Loriann Stevenson Fine Jewelry
Located in Santa Monica, CA
This 10.20ct Australian Opal Bracelet is Bezel set in 18k Matte Yellow Gold with a 19g Handmade
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Contemporary Chain Bracelets

Materials

Opal, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Australian Boulder Opal Pendant with Diamond Accents on 18k Yellow Gold Chain
By Loriann Stevenson Fine Jewelry
Located in Santa Monica, CA
11.78ct Australian Boulder Opal on Handmade Signature oval link chain with Diamond accented bails
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Contemporary Chain Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Opal, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Opal Doublet Hinged Teardrops Bezel Set in 18k Heavy Matte Yellow Gold
By Loriann Stevenson Fine Jewelry
Located in Santa Monica, CA
These Sweet opal Doublet 3 drop earrings are Bezel set in Heavy 18k Matte Yellow Gold and Hinged
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Contemporary Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Crystal Opal Pear Drop Earrings with Diamond Pave in 18k Matte Yellow Gold
By Loriann Stevenson Fine Jewelry
Located in Santa Monica, CA
4.08ct Crystal Opal pear drop earrings with 1.73ct SI Diamond pave in 18k matte yellow gold
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Contemporary Dangle Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Carved Australian Boulder Opal and Diamond Earrings, 18k Yellow Gold
By Bijoux De Mer Fine Jewelry
Located in Miramar Beach, FL
Rare and exotic hand-carved Australian opal fishes with gorgeous drops made of opal slice doublets
Category

2010s American Contemporary Dangle Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Ico the Bird Chrysoprase, Opal, Quartz, Carnelian Bird 22k Gold Necklace
By Ico the Bird Fine Jewelry
Located in Los Angeles, CA
, Citrine, Labradorite, Carnelian, Chrysoprase, and Pink Opal birds hang from a 22k gold hand made chain
Category

2010s American Contemporary Drop Necklaces

Materials

Amethyst, Labradorite, Multi-gemstone, Opal, Quartz, 22k Gold

A.Jeschel Fine Morganite , Opal and Onyx Necklace
By A.Jeschel One-of-a-kind
Located in Miami, FL
exquisite Morganite and Rose Opals. Morganite, often referred to as "pink beryl," is a rare gem-quality
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Contemporary Beaded Necklaces

Materials

Morganite, Onyx, Opal, Quartz, Sterling Silver

Antique Fine Watch Talisman Bracelet Filled with Vintage Opals
By The Artemisian
Located in Marlton, NJ
and bracelets and repurposed here. This band is filled with vintage opals and one peridot said to
Category

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Retro Bracelets

Materials

Peridot, Opal, 10k Gold

Pink Opal Drop Earrings in 22 Karat Yellow Gold
By Elleard Heffern Fine Jewelers
Located in Saint Louis, MO
Heffern Fine Jewelers. The long, teardrop-shaped pink opals, 25.90ctw., are topped with the rich warmth of
Category

2010s American Contemporary Drop Earrings

Materials

Opal, 22k Gold

Australian Opal Diamond Moonstone Fine 18 Karat Yellow Gold Stacking Ring
Located in Brisbane, AU
Andrea Estelle Jewellery handmade opal stack rings featuring 2 solid Australian Black opals from
Category

2010s Australian Contemporary Cluster Rings

Materials

White Diamond, Moonstone, Opal, 18k Gold

Australian Opal Diamond One-of-a-Kind 18k Gold Collar Pendant Necklace
By Lizunova Fine Jewels
Located in Sydney, NSW
This gorgeous, one-of-a-kind Australian crystal opal necklace is handmade in 18k yellow gold and
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Australian Contemporary Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

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Fine Opal Jewelry For Sale on 1stDibs

You are likely to find exactly the piece of fine opal jewelry you’re looking for on 1stDibs, as there is a broad range for sale. Frequently made of Gold, Yellow Gold and 14k Gold, this item was constructed with great care. Our collection of these items for sale includes 117 vintage editions and 65 modern creations to choose from as well. If you’re looking for an item from our selection of fine opal jewelry from a specific time period, our collection is diverse and broad-ranging, and you’ll find at least one that dates back to the 19th Century while another version may have been produced as recently as the 21st Century. A choice in our collection of fine opal jewelry from Fine Jewels UK, De Maria fine&antique jewelry and Exquisite Fine Jewellery — each of whom created a beautiful version of this treasured accessory — is worth considering. An oval cut version of this piece has appeal, but there are also cabochon and mixed cut versions for sale. There aren’t many items for men if you’re seeking an object in our assortment of fine opal jewelry, as most of the options available are for women and unisex.

How Much is a Fine Opal Jewelry?

On average, a piece of fine opal jewelry at 1stDibs sells for $1,850, while they’re typically $85 on the low end and $99,000 for the highest priced versions of this item.

The Legacy of Opal in Jewelry Design

Opals were discovered in 400 BC, and since then five types have been found throughout the world. Before you start shopping for mysteriously beautiful vintage opal rings and other opal jewelry, learn about the different varieties of the gem — and find out which historical figure was reportedly willing to trade his kingdom for a single stone.

Here is a little riddle for you: the month of October has two birthstones, but only one of them encompasses the colors of other birthstones. If you guessed opal, you’re right! (The other gemstone associated with the month of October is tourmaline.)

Opals are such unusual gemstones that there are too many old-wives tales associated with them, like if you’re a blond, wearing an opal necklace will protect your locks from losing color. Opals were also very fashionable in the early 19th century, up until the publication of Sir Walter Scott’s novel Anne of Geierstein in 1829. The title heroine wears an opal and succumbs to an untimely death. However, the British monarchy, and in particular Queen Victoria, did not let this story get in their way, and they frequently gifted opals to friends and family members. October babies should disregard the noise and proudly wear their opals!

There are five types of precious opals: boulder opal, fire opal, crystal/water opal, black opal, and white/light opal. Each variety is distinguished by its color.

So, where does the name come from? The word opal is thought to originate from the Roman opalus or from the Sanskrit úpala (“precious stone”) or from the Greek opallios (“to see a color change”). So while there have been many names for the stones, opals were first discovered in 400 BC in Ethiopia. But the early reference that comes up most often in history books is from the Roman philosopher Pliny the Elder, who wrote about it in 75 AD. In his text he refers to it as opali. The Romans were big fans of opal, Mark Antony was so enamored by it that, as the story goes, he was willing to trade a portion of his kingdom for a single opal.

There's a wide variety of antique and vintage opal jewelry on 1stDibs (and you won't have to trade your kingdom for it).

Questions About Fine Opal Jewelry
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
    The difference between fine jewelry and jewelry is in the specificity of the terms. Jewelry is a broad category of small accessories, most often made of metal, that adorn different parts of the body. Examples of jewelry include necklaces, earrings, rings, bracelets and brooches. Fine jewelry is the term for jewelry crafted out of fine materials. These include precious metals such as silver, gold and platinum and gemstones like diamonds, emeralds and rubies. Find a wide variety of fine jewelry on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 15, 2024
    Yes, fine jewelry is generally real jewelry. By definition, fine jewelry is jewelry produced using high-end materials, such as genuine sterling silver, gold and platinum. Gemstones may be natural or lab-created, as both types of stones are considered real based on their identical chemical compositions. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of fine jewelry.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 30, 2024
    Many jewelry lovers believe that fine jewelry is worth it. Featuring precious metals and genuine gemstones, fine jewelry often holds or gains value over time, and these materials make it visually appealing. Also, fine jewelry is often crafted by hand using traditional techniques, giving it a high level of quality that can help it stand the test of time. However, vintage and antique costume jewelry can also be attractive and finely crafted. When choosing jewelry, consider where and how frequently you'll wear it, your style, budget and other factors. On 1stDibs, find a large selection of jewelry.
  • 1stDibs ExpertAugust 8, 2024
    Yes, fine jewelry is real in terms of its materials. By definition, fine jewelry features genuine precious metals, such as gold, platinum and sterling silver. Any pearls or gemstones set in pieces are also genuine, though in some cases, they may be human-made rather than naturally occurring. On 1stDibs, explore a wide variety of fine jewelry.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
    What is considered fine jewelry is somewhat open to interpretation. Typically, fine jewelry features precious metals like sterling silver, gold and platinum. Any stones featured in pieces are generally genuine gemstones like diamonds, rubies, emeralds and sapphires. The term fine jewelry is different from fashion jewelry, which is usually more modestly priced and typically doesn't feature precious metals and genuine gemstones. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of jewelry.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 13, 2024
    Quality and rarity define the difference between fine jewelry and high jewelry. Any jewelry that features fine materials, like precious metals and gemstones, may be considered fine jewelry. The term high jewelry usually refers to one-of-a-kind jewelry that is often crafted entirely or partially by hand. Shop a diverse assortment of jewelry on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    How you define high jewelry versus fine jewelry is largely a matter of personal opinion because the terms do not have formal definitions. Generally, fine jewelry is any piece of jewelry carefully crafted out of precious materials like metal and gemstones. High jewelry is a term used by collectors to describe jewelry of significant value. Exceptional craftsmanship, one-of-a-kind signs and highly sought pieces may fall under the category. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of antique and vintage jewelry.
  • 1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2024
    Many jewelry lovers believe that fine jewelry is worth buying. Not only does fine jewelry typically feature precious metals and gemstones that have value on their own, but the pieces also often boast exceptional craftsmanship that allows them to stand the test of time. However, whether or not it’s worth investing in fine jewelry is totally subjective. At 1stDibs, we believe in buying what you love. Our shopping experience enables discovery and learning, whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your collection. Shop a wide range of fine jewelry on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Yes, fine jewelery is a good long-term investment. Often it takes jewelry up to 30 years to appreciate. Many types of jewelry hold their value quite well.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
    The difference between Chanel high jewelry and fine jewelry comes down to exclusivity. The Chanel fine jewelry collection consists of pieces featuring precious metals and gemstones. These are available to purchase through Chanel boutiques and other authorized dealers. Chanel high jewelry is the term for one-of-a-kind Chanel jewelry. These pieces are custom-designed by the luxury fashion house's high jewelry artistic director and made to order for each customer. On 1stDibs, explore a large collection of Chanel jewelry.