People often ask me whether opals are fragile, and I completely understand why — they’re beautiful, unique, and unlike any other gemstone. So let me clear it up: yes, opals are softer than many gemstones, sitting around 5.5–6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, but that doesn’t mean they’re weak. With the right care, a solid Australian opal can last a lifetime, and I’ve seen many passed down through generations.
How Hard Are Opals Really?
Opal has a similar hardness to glass, which means it can scratch or chip if it’s knocked against something hard. That’s why I always recommend removing your opal jewellery when you’re doing anything that might put it at risk.
I personally recommend taking your opal jewellery off when:
- Gardening
- Doing DIY or heavy lifting
- At the gym
- Using harsh cleaning chemicals
A little care goes a long way.
Solid Opal vs Doublets vs Triplets — What I Recommend
Not all opals are the same, and this is something I explain to customers all the time.
Solid Opal
This is always my top recommendation. A solid opal is one natural piece of stone — no layers, no glue, nothing to worry about. It’s the most durable and stable option.
Doublets & Triplets
These are made by gluing thin slices of opal onto a backing (doublet) or adding a clear top layer (triplet). They look great, but because they rely on adhesives, they’re more vulnerable to:
- Water damage
- Heat
- Long‑term wear
Boulder Opal
Boulder opal is one of my favourites because it’s naturally backed by ironstone, making it incredibly durable. If you want something strong with amazing colour, boulder opal is a fantastic choice.
Why Do Opals Break? (From My Experience)
Most of the “opal break” stories I hear come from the same situation:
Someone dropped their opal or opal jewellery onto a hard floor.
A sudden impact can crack or chip any gemstone — even diamonds — and opal is no different.
Australian opals aren’t overly fragile; they’re just a little softer and more sensitive than some stones. With reasonable care, your opal will last for generations.
Do Opals Lose Their Shine Over Time?
Yes, they can — but it’s nothing to worry about.
Like all gemstones, opals can develop tiny surface scuffs after years of wear. When this happens, the stone can look a little dull. The good news is that I can bring the shine back with a professional polish. If your opal needs a re-polish get in contact with me here ->
My Tips for Caring for Your Opal Jewellery
- Store them separately from harder gemstones
- Avoid extreme heat or sudden temperature changes
- Remove them during physical activities
- Clean gently with mild soapy water and a soft cloth
- Bring them to me for a polish if they start to look dull
Opals don’t need complicated care — just a bit of mindfulness.
Want Help With Your Opal?
If you ever need advice, polishing, or help choosing the right opal, I’m always here. Feel free to reach out through my contact page.