Q&A for How to Tell if an Opal Is Fake

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I brought an opal that they said was a created white fire opal. Is it real or fake?

Community Answer

It sounds like an opal that was created in a lab instead of dug out of the earth. That does make it less valuable than a mined opal.

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Question

If opal has a specific pattern, does that mean it's manufactured?

Community Answer

It is really likely to be a fake with a specific or repeated pattern. Nearly all symmetrical opals are fake; check if it is a perfect circle or oval. Even a small opal is well over $100, so if it's selling for less than this, it's probably manufactured.

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Question

Is Oregon peach opal real?

Community Answer

Yes. The opal variety was first discovered in 2016.

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Question

If my opal only shows red in the sunlight, is it fake?

Community Answer

No, that does not mean it's fake. Fire opals have bright red layers that make this stone stand out.

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Question

What is a crystal opal?

Community Answer

Crystal opal is usually a water clear stone that displays multiple colors in the stone. If you have to look through the stone (light behind it) to see the color, it is called Contra Luz.

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Question

I was in Jerusalem last year and bought a small beautiful opal ring. How do I clean it?

Community Answer

Place 1⁄2 cup (120 ml) of warm water in a small bowl. Add 2 or 3 drops of a mild, unscented dish soap and swish to create a lather. Submerge the ring into the soapy solution. Let it soak for 5-10 minutes, swishing it around every few minutes to help loosen any dirt. Wet a soft cloth with the solution and gently wipe down the ring.

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