Skip to main content

Fine Opal Jewelry

to
61
292
204
350
267
114
109
70
51
41
38
15
14
12
11
11
10
8
7
6
4
4
4
3
1
1
1
1
1
50
14
12
9
8
Sort By
Fei Liu Opal Diamond 18ct Two-Tone Gold Pendant Necklace
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, GB
13mm - Chain length: 16 inches + 2-inch extension About Fei Liu Fine Jewellery: Hello! We are Fei Liu
Category

2010s British Contemporary Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, Gold, 18k Gold, Gold Plate, Rose Gold, Whi...

Set in 18K Gold, Ethiopian Opal, Emerald, Tanzanite Diamonds Stud Earrings
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Fine Jewelry ✦ Gemstone: Ethiopian Opal ✦ Gemstone Cut: cabochon Oval ✦ Gemstone Weight: 7.76 ct
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Stud Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Emerald, Opal, Tanzanite, 18k Gold

Fei Liu Oval Opal Diamond 18 Karat Rose Gold Pendant Necklace
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, GB
Chain length: 16" About Fei Liu Fine Jewellery: Hello! We are Fei Liu Fine Jewellery. An east-meets
Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Contemporary Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold

4.04 carats, Ethiopian Opal, Pink Sapphires Rose Cut Diamonds Engagement Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
changed for request. Features: ✦ Handmade / Handcrafted Fine Jewelry ✦ Gemstone: Ethiopian Opal
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, 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

Durand Company Rare Art Nouveau Gold, Black Opal and Diamond Necklace
Located in Birmingham, AL
features a single, fine, oval, black opal that measures 23x12x5.8mm and weighs approximately 9 carats. The
Category

Vintage 1910s American Art Nouveau More Necklaces

Materials

White Diamond, Opal, 18k Gold

Fei Lliu Boulder Opal Demantoid Garnet 18 Karat Yellow Gold Ring
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, GB
Description: An exquisite ring from the limited edition collection of Fei Liu Fine Jewellery. This
Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Contemporary Cluster Rings

Materials

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

Antique 1900s 2.12 Carat Opal and 1.09 Carat Diamond Yellow Gold Cocktail Watch
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
A stunning, fine and impressive antique Edwardian 2.12 Carat opal and 1.09 Carat diamond, 18 karat
Category

Antique Early 1900s Unknown Edwardian Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, Opal, Yellow Gold

Fei Liu Opal Diamond 18 Karat Two-Tone Gold Pendant Necklace
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, GB
Fei Liu Fine Jewellery: Hello! We are Fei Liu Fine Jewellery. An east-meets-west jewellery brand based
Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Contemporary Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold

Fei Liu Opal Demantoid Garnet Diamond 18 Karat Gold Drop Earrings
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, GB
- Metal: 18ct yellow gold About Fei Liu Fine Jewellery: Fei Liu Fine Jewellery is an eponymous jewellery
Category

2010s British Contemporary Dangle Earrings

Materials

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

Antique 2.72 Carat Aquamarine and 2.50 Carat Opal, Diamond and Gold Pendant
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
photographs may detract from the true representation of this fine example of opal jewelry/estate jewelry
Category

Antique Early 1900s Unknown Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Aquamarine, Diamond, Opal, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold

Set in 18K Gold, 6.30 carats, Ethiopian Opal Mozambique Ruby Cocktail Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
: ✦ Handmade / Handcrafted Fine Jewelry ✦ Gemstone: Ethiopian Opal ✦ Gemstone Cut: Oval Cabochon ✦ Gemstone
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Cocktail Rings

Materials

Opal, Ruby, 18k Gold

2.00 Carat Natural Lighting Ridge Black Opal and Diamond Ring Set in Platinum
Located in Tokyo, JP
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Established in 1994, Rita Fine Jewelry has been making beautiful jewelr...
Category

20th Century Japanese Modern Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Black Opal, Platinum

13.27ct Opal, Aquamarine and Diamond Halo 18 Karat Gold Pendant Necklace
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, GB
: 30 x17 mm - Chain: 18" Fei Liu Fine Jewellery is an independent jewellery designer brand based in
Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Aesthetic Movement Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Aquamarine, Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, Gold, White Gold

3.55ct Cabochon Cut Opal and 2.68ct Diamond Yellow Gold Cluster Ring
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
gold set cocktail ring; part of our diverse opal jewelry collection. This stunning, fine and
Category

Late 20th Century British Engagement Rings

Materials

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

Fei Liu Flower Crystal Opal Demantoid 18 Karat Rose Gold Stud Earrings
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, GB
, demantoids = 0.5ct Metal: 18ct rose gold About Fei Liu Fine Jewellery: Fei Liu Fine Jewellery is an
Category

2010s British Contemporary Stud Earrings

Materials

Opal, Other, Crystal, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold

Opal Diamond Blue Sapphire 18 Karat Rose Gold Asymmetric Pendant Necklace
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, GB
Jewellery: Fei Liu Fine Jewellery is an eponymous jewellery brand founded in 2006 by award-winning designer
Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Contemporary Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, R...

Fei Liu Opal Sapphire Diamond 18ct Gold Teardrop Pendant Necklace
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, GB
Fine Jewellery: Hello! We are Fei Liu Fine Jewellery. An east-meets-west jewellery brand based in the
Category

2010s British Contemporary Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, G...

Set in 18K Gold, Ethiopian Opal, Tanzanite Rose Cut Diamonds Cocktail Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
. Features: ✦ Handmade / Handcrafted Fine Jewelry ✦ Gemstone: Ethiopian Opal ✦ Gemstone Cut: Oval Cabochon
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, Tanzanite, 18k Gold

Vintage 1950s 6.33 Carat Opal and 1.62 Carat Diamond White Gold Cocktail Ring
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
diverse opal jewelry collections This stunning, fine and impressive vintage opal and diamond ring has
Category

Vintage 1950s English Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, 18k Gold, White Gold

Set in 18K Gold, 4.39 carats Ethiopian Opal, Tourmaline 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, Opal, Tourmaline, 18k Gold

1.82 Carat Opal and 1.82 Carat Diamond Yellow Gold Drop Earrings Circa 1900
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
A stunning, fine and impressive pair of antique 1.82 carat opal and 1.82 carat diamond, 18 karat
Category

Antique Early 1900s Unknown Dangle Earrings

Materials

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

Set in 18K Gold, Ethiopian Opal, natural Zambian Emerald Diamond Cocktail Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
. ✦ Handmade / Handcrafted Fine Jewelry ✦ Gemstone: Ethiopian Opal ✦ Gemstone Cut: Cabochon ✦ Gemstone Weight
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Emerald, Opal, 18k Gold

Vintage 18 Karat Gold Cabochon White Opal 0.10 Carat Diamond Cluster Ring
Located in Vilnius, Vilniaus apskr.
consideration. ——— “Laura Antiques Fine Jewellery” is a successful family-owned business since 2009. Our
Category

Late 20th Century Belgian Modern Cluster Rings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, Gold, 18k Gold

Antique 5.72 Carat Harlequin Opal and 7.52 Carat Diamond 12K Yellow Gold Pendant
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
example of antique opal jewellery/estate jewelry. Opal Quality Color Harlequin Cut Oval Content 5.72
Category

Antique 1890s Unknown Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Opal, Yellow Gold, Platinum

Jennifer Kalled Opal Earring Drusy Sequoia Tsavorite Blue Zircon 22k 18k 14k
By Jennifer Kalled
Located in Wolfeboro, NH
"Aubri" opal earrings were named after my apprentice and friend. If she were a pair of earrings
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Artisan More Earrings

Materials

Opal, Tsavorite, Zircon, 14k Gold, 18k Gold, 22k Gold

9.68 Carat Natural White, Ethiopian Opal and Diamond Ring Set in 18K Gold
Located in Tokyo, JP
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Established in 1994, Rita Fine Jewelry has been making beautiful jewelr...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Japanese Modern Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Wendy Yue Sculptural Ring in 18kt Gold 28.92 Ctw Black Opal Diamonds Tsavorite
By Wendy Yue
Located in Miami, FL
in Vienna. Wendy Yue established her fine jewelry atelier in 1998. She became madly fascinated with
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Hong Kong Contemporary Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Opal, Tsavorite, Black Opal, White Diamond, Gol...

Fei Liu Opal Diamond 18 Karat Rose Gold Trilogy Ring
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, GB
Fei Liu Fine Jewellery: Hello! We are Fei Liu Fine Jewellery. An east-meets-west jewellery brand based
Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Contemporary Three-Stone Rings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold

Fei Liu Boulder Opal Ruby Diamond 18 Karat Rose Gold Cluster Ring
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, GB
Jewellery. This ring features a 5.02ct iridescent boulder opal. The colour-of-play within the opal is
Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Contemporary Cluster Rings

Materials

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

5.94 Carat Opal and 6.55 Carat Diamond Yellow Gold Cocktail Ring by Grima
By Grima
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
jewelry collections. This stunning, fine and impressive vintage opal ring has been crafted in 18k yellow
Category

Vintage 1970s Unknown Cocktail Rings

Materials

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

Fei Liu Opal Diamond Blue Topaz 18 Carat Yellow Gold Drop Earrings
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, GB
: thread and scroll About Fei Liu Fine Jewellery: Hello! We are Fei Liu Fine Jewellery. An east-meets-west
Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Contemporary Dangle Earrings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, Topaz, Blue Topaz, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow ...

Fei Liu Opal Inlay Amethyst Diamond 18 Karat Rose Gold Pendant Necklace
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, GB
gold About Fei Liu Fine Jewellery: Fei Liu Fine Jewellery is an eponymous jewellery brand founded in
Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Contemporary Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Amethyst, Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold

Set in 18K Gold, Ethiopian Opal, Emerald, Pink Sapphire Diamonds Cocktail Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
: ✦ Handmade / Handcrafted Fine Jewelry ✦ Gemstone: Ethiopian Opal ✦ Gemstone Cut: Round Cabochon ✦ Gemstone
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Cocktail Rings

Materials

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

Fei Liu Opal Pink Tourmaline Diamond 18 Karat Rose Gold Cocktail Ring
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, GB
(HxW): 31 x 25mm Fei Liu Fine Jewellery is an independent jewellery designer brand based in the
Category

2010s British Contemporary Cocktail Rings

Materials

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

Fei Liu Opal Diamond 18ct White Gold Yellow Gold-Accented Stud Earrings
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, GB
= 9.9ct, diamonds = 0.528ct - Dimensions (HxW): 14 x 17mm - Weight: 3.7gm Fei Liu Fine Jewellery is an
Category

2010s British Contemporary Stud Earrings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, Gold, 18k Gold, Gold Plate, White Gold, Ye...

3.54 Carat Natural White Opal and Diamond Vintage Ring Set in 18K White Gold
Located in Tokyo, JP
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Established in 1994, Rita Fine Jewelry has been making beautiful jewelr...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Japanese Modern Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, 18k Gold, White Gold

1940s 1.55 Carat Opal and Diamond Yellow Rose and White Gold Cocktail Ring
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
detract from the true representation of this fine example of opal jewelry/estate jewelry. Item Ref. SKU
Category

Vintage 1940s Unknown Cocktail Rings

Materials

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

Set in 18K Gold, Ethiopian Opal, Pink Sapphires Rose Cut Diamonds Stud Earring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
added push for enhanced protection. Features: ✦ Handmade / Handcrafted Fine Jewelry ✦ Gemstone
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Art Deco Stud Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, Pink Sapphire, 18k Gold

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

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Dome Rings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, Pink Sapphire, 18k Gold

Fei Liu 6.21 Carat Opal and Diamond 18 Karat White Gold Pendant Necklace
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, GB
An enchanting chromatic pendant with a touch of classic design. This opal pendant exudes an energy
Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Contemporary Pendant Necklaces

Materials

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

Fei Liu 9.61ct Opal, Dia and Demantoid Garnet 18 Karat Gold Pendant Necklace
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, GB
inches Fei Liu Fine Jewellery is an independent jewellery designer brand based in the historic
Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Contemporary Pendant Necklaces

Materials

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

Set in 18K White Gold, Ethiopian Opal, Black Onyx Diamonds Cocktail Dome Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Fine Jewelry ✦ Gemstone: Ethiopian Opal ✦ Gemstone Cut: Pear Cabochon ✦ Gemstone Weight: 6.88 ct
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Art Deco Dome Rings

Materials

Diamond, Onyx, Opal, 18k Gold, White Gold

Fei Liu Art Deco Style Opal Diamond Rock Crystal 18 Karat Gold Pendant
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, GB
: 16" About Fei Liu Fine Jewellery: Hello! We are Fei Liu Fine Jewellery. An east-meets-west jewellery
Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Art Deco Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Crystal, Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, Rock Crystal, Gold, 18k Gold, Yel...

Fei Liu Art Deco Style Opal Diamond Rock Crystal 18 Karat Gold Pendant
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, GB
: 16" About Fei Liu Fine Jewellery: Hello! We are Fei Liu Fine Jewellery. An east-meets-west jewellery
Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Art Deco Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Crystal, Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, Rock Crystal, Gold, 18k Gold, Yel...

Fei Liu Opal, Diamond and Sapphire 18 Carat Yellow Gold Stud Flower Earrings
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, GB
Liu Fine Jewellery is an independent jewellery designer brand based in the historic Birmingham
Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Contemporary Stud Earrings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Y...

Fei Liu Opal Lapis Lazuli Diamond Sapphire 18 Karat Gold Dome Ring
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, GB
, sapphire = 2.96ct Metal: 18 karat gold About Fei Liu Fine Jewellery: Hello! We are Fei Liu Fine Jewellery
Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Contemporary Cocktail Rings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Lapis Lazuli, Opal, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Gol...

Edwardian 14 Karat Gold Cabochon Cut Opal Diamond Three Stone Ring
Located in Vilnius, Vilniaus apskr.
. You can buy with confidence. Thank you for your consideration. ——— “Laura Antiques Fine Jewellery
Category

Early 20th Century Edwardian Three-Stone Rings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, Gold, 14k Gold

Art Deco 14 Karat Gold 1.00 Carat Opal 0.36 Carat Rose Cut Diamond Dome Ring
Located in Vilnius, Vilniaus apskr.
consideration. ——— “Laura Antiques Fine Jewellery” is a successful family-owned business since 2009. Our
Category

20th Century French Art Deco Dome Rings

Materials

Diamond, Opal, 14k Gold

1.97 Carat Lighting Ridge Black Opal Diamond Three-Stone Ring Set in Platinum
Located in Tokyo, JP
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Established in 1994, Rita Fine Jewelry has been making beautiful jewelr...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Japanese Modern Three-Stone Rings

Materials

Diamond, Black Opal, Platinum

Fei Liu Tanzanite Opal Diamond 18 Karat White Gold Trilogy Ring
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, GB
) / ~6.75 (US) Fei Liu Fine Jewellery is an independent jewellery designer brand based in the historic
Category

2010s British Contemporary Three-Stone Rings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, Tanzanite, 18k Gold, Gold Plate, White Gol...

Fei Liu 4.5 Carat Opal Diamond Demantoid Garnet 18 Karat White Gold Cluster Ring
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, GB
Liu Fine Jewellery: Fei Liu Fine Jewellery is an eponymous jewellery brand founded in 2006 by award
Category

2010s British Contemporary Cluster Rings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Garnet, Opal, Gold, 18k Gold, Gold Plate, White ...

Antique 1909 0.52 Carat Opal and 0.08 Carat Diamond, 18 k Yellow gold Dress Ring
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
representation of this fine example of opal jewellery/estate jewelry. SKU: A6771
Category

Antique Early 1900s English Edwardian Three-Stone Rings

Materials

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

Tom Odell Vintage Studio Earrings In 18Kt Yellow Gold With 8.20 Ctw In Gem Opal
Located in Miami, FL
Massachusett by the studio jewelry artist Tom Odell. This three dimensional geometric earrings has been made
Category

20th Century American Modernist Clip-on Earrings

Materials

Opal, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Luxury Essentials Emerald 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

Spectra Fine Jewelry, Fire Opal Diamond Earrings Ring Set
By Spectra Fine Jewelry
Located in New York, NY
A unique set comprising of the earrings and ring. Featuring 15 mixed cut fire opals of Mexican
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American More Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Fire Opal, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Graduated Natural Opal Bead Necklace Vintage Fine Jewelry
Located in Torrance, CA
necklace measures 20 inches in length and is great worn alone or layered with your fine jewelry from any
Category

Mid-20th Century Unknown Modern Beaded Necklaces

Materials

Opal, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

  • 1
  • ...
Get Updated with New Arrivals
Save "Fine Opal Jewelry", and we’ll notify you when there are new listings in this category.

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.