Opal is one of the most desired gemstones due to its unique play-of-color. These gemstones can flash with every color of the rainbow and are a rare and eye-catching choice. However, it is also one of the most fragile and delicate stones. It is important to know how to maintain and take care of an Opal ring to ensure that it stays pristine for a long time.
Understanding how to take care of an Opal can be a little confusing, as it is highly porous and is capable of absorbing water, and is sensitive when exposed to extreme temperatures. Taking care of an Opal ring is the same as caring for any other jewelry piece, but rings are often vulnerable to damage as compared to other types of jewelry. So, if you own an Opal ring or any opal jewelry and are seeking to keep it in great condition, then here is our blog to help you learn how to care for an Opal ring.
Dos For Taking Care of an Opal Ring
Always make sure to follow these tips if you want to keep your Opal ring pristine and luxurious:
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Store it separately from other Gemstones: With a hardness of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, opals can easily be scratched by tougher stones like Diamonds or Rubies. So, to protect your Opal, it is always best to store it away from other gemstones when not in use. For long-term storage, keep it in a dark area such as a jewelry box or cabinet, and try to place it in a sealed plastic bag with some cotton wool and a few drops of water to retain moisture. This will help the Opal from drying out or cracking.
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Follow the "First and Last" Rule: To keep your Opals retain their high-quality and shine, put them on last when dressing up in the morning and take them off first before going to bed. This rule is often applied to Pearls as well. Following this rule will benefit Opal by minimizing exposure to harmful substances and chemicals like hairsprays, lotions, and perfumes.
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Remove before doing any physical activities: Try to take off your Opal before doing any physical activities like cleaning, gardening, or exercising. Moisture from our sweat can also dull the opal's shine over time, and the risk of scratches from a knock or scrape increases during these activities, so it's best to avoid wearing them when doing such activities.
Don'ts For Taking Care of an Opal Ring
All these things must be avoided to keep your Opal ring looking beautiful always and to avoid losing its luster:
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Avoid Exposure to Extreme Temperatures: Opals can become fragile and may crack if exposed to heat, dryness, or extreme temperatures for longer periods. Therefore, avoid storing them in sunny spots or areas with high humidity, such as bathrooms.
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Do Not Expose it to Excess Water: While Oplas contain up to 20% water, they must not be submerged. Overexposure, especially for Ethiopian opals, can lead to losing their color. So, it is advised to remove your Opal rings before washing the dishes.
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Research About the Cleaning Methods: Before cleaning your Opal ring, research the appropriate methods. Harsh cleaning techniques, abrasive chemicals, or oils must not be used on these delicate Opas. Instead, use a mild detergent along with room-temperature water and a soft toothbrush or cloth to clean the dirt. Make sure to rinse off any residue before storing it.
Conclusion
Taking care of an Opal ring is no more challenging than any other gemstone pieces; they just need some extra and specific level of care. Opals can be delicate in nature, but if taken care of properly, they can last throughout your life without any issues. Cleaning your Opal ring every month or two will keep your stone clean and shiny. Don't let these dos and don'ts change your decision to buy an Opal ring, it's rare fire and amazing beauty make it a must-have stone in anybody's gem collection or a custom jewelry piece.
