Gemstones & Birthstones
Genuine vs Synthetic Opal: How to Tell the Difference
Genuine opal is hydrated silica with true play-of-color. Learn to spot synthetic Gilson opal, doublets, triplets, and plastic imitations ...
The Oath Journal
Opal guides
Gemstones & Birthstones
How to Buy Opal Jewelry: White, Black, Doublets & How to Choose the Right Stone
Opal is judged on play-of-color, not the 4Cs. Learn white versus black opal, how solid stones differ from doublets and triplets, and how ...
Gemstones & Birthstones
October Birthstone: Opal Meaning, Color & Jewelry
Opal is the birthstone for October, with tourmaline as the alternate. Its meaning, play-of-color, hardness, and how to care for opal jewe...
Gemstones & Birthstones
How to Evaluate Opal Quality: Play-of-Color, Body Tone & Pattern
What makes a quality opal: how play-of-color and brightness lead, why black opal is most valued, the doublet and treatment questions, and...