The properties and qualities of gemstones and ring metals differ widely. Each gemstone has its treatment and setting, and the opal stone on an engagement ring is quite no exception. One must be well-versed with the stone and its different characteristics to opt for it. Also, they should know the maintenance process, the price range, and several other factors before purchasing an opal engagement ring. Here, we will provide a comprehensive guide on Opal rings to help you with your shopping.
What Are The Properties Of Opal Stone?
The Opal stone, like other gemstones, has its specific characteristics. The stone’s structure will help you decide the manner of usage. Let us learn the specifications of the stone;
- Hardness
The most important thing to consider is the durability of the stone to determine the kind of usage you can subject it to. Its hardness in the Mohs scale is 5.6 to 6.5, which means it is softer. Hence, it is not appreciable for daily or, more precisely, rough use. For instance, couples associated with professions like culinary, doctor, sports person, etc. It easily succumbs to scratches, but is not brittle.
- Shape
One of the benefits of choosing Opal over other stones is that it comes in all kinds of shapes. This gives couples to choose from a wide variety of options. The most common shapes opted for are round and oval. The other shapes are teardrop, square, rectangle, triangle, pear, marquis. The oval is the most sought-after shape since it helps enhance the stone’s size.
- Setting
As the stone is quite soft, it is very important to secure it in the ring with an efficient setting. In this case, a bezel setting is the most appropriate since it claws onto the stone to establish a strong grasp over it.
- Cut
The cut heavily influences the stone’s appearance. In this case, the most appropriate cut is a symmetrical soft domed top with a flat base. This kind of cut is called the cabochon cut. The cut enables multiple views of the stone’s vibrancy and hues.
- Color
The gemstone shimmers with an array of spectral colors. The major colors are white, blue, orange, black, red, pink,
Factors To Consider While Buying The Opal Engagement Ring
- Ring Size
The first thing to consider is the diameter of the ring to help you determine the size of the stone. Since it is a soft metal, the wrong size might put pressure on the stone, damaging it.
- Metal Choice
The other aspect of the ring is metal. It would help to choose a metal that perfectly combines with the stone. The options available here are white gold for darker stone shades, golden yellow for lighter shades, and rose gold for white opals for a dreamy engagement ring.
- Maintenance
Though the stone is soft, maintaining it is simple. It would help to use mild toothpaste diluted in water to brush off the stains and dust with a soft-bristle toothbrush.
- Personalization
You can make your engagement ring special and unique by engravings, mixed metal bands, or choosing an uncommon stone shade.
- Cut
There are two types of cabochon cut – high and low. The high cabochon cut is more vulnerable and can be damaged easily, while the low cut is more durable. Hence, according to your usage, you need to choose.
- Reputed Retailer
The most important factor to consider is the store you purchase it from. Ensure you opt for reputed sellers like Rosec Jewels, certified by IGS. Renowned retailers like this will provide an authentic and superior-grade opal engagement ring.
- Budget
Budgeting an Opal ring is essential. This will give you a holistic idea of your engagement ring expense. The parameters that influence the budget are:
- The stone alone will have a cost, but the stone, in combination with others, will have a hiked price. Also, the price will vary with the different shades of the stone.
- The level of clarity will affect the price range. The more inclusions and flaws, the lower the price.
- Whether you are choosing Synthetic or natural opals will affect your budget. Natural opals are costlier than synthetic ones.
Wrapping Up
An engagement ring is very important in a couple’s life and must be chosen carefully and meticulously to retain its significance and shine for the rest of their life. This guide will help couples to get a holistic overview of opal engagement stones and thus aid them in making effective choices.
