If you are thinking about buying an opal you need to know one thing what is the difference between a natural opal and a synthetic opal that is grown in a lab? Both natural opal and synthetic opal are very pretty. They have a lot of colors. When light hits them, they look like a rainbow.
When you think about how much opal costs, how long they will last, how strong they are, and if you can sell them again, that is where natural opal and synthetic opal are really different. Natural opal and synthetic opal are not the same when it comes to these things.
What is Natural Opal?
Natural opal is a gemstone that takes thousands of years to form underground. It grows from water, in silica that evaporates very slowly.
When tiny silica spheres line up right they make the opal shine with a beautiful rainbow flash and that's what makes opal so special. The opal's rainbow flash is really unique. The opal gets its flash from the way light bends around these silica spheres.
Major Sources
The world's highest concentrations of high-quality opal are found in Australia, Ethiopia, and Mexico. Demand in the US and UK markets, especially for Australian and Ethiopian opal, is strong.
Characteristics of Natural Opal
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Each stone is unique
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The color pattern is irregular
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Inclusions or minor cracks may occur
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High-end pieces have strong resale value
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It is highly sought after in Western astrology and birthstone jewelry
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Being the October birthstone also maintains a steady demand worldwide.
Read More:- Which Is the Best Opal to Buy in 2026?
What is Synthetic (Lab-Created) Opal?
Synthetic opal is a man-made gemstone created in a laboratory. It does not form naturally underground. It is manufactured under controlled temperature and pressure conditions, making its color pattern more uniform and predictable.
The first commercially successful lab opal was developed by Gilson, and synthetic versions have been widely available on the market since then.
Is Synthetic Opal the October Birthstone?
No, the official birthstone of October is traditionally considered natural opal. Lab-created opal does not receive traditional or classic gemstone status within the birthstone category. Therefore, if someone wants to specifically purchase October birthstone jewelry, they usually choose natural opal.
Price – Why is Synthetic Opal so Cheap?
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Synthetic opal is mass-produced.
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Natural opal is very rare, so it is cheaper.
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The best part about synthetic opal is that it doesn't cost much.
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Mining costs, rarity factors, and supply limitations do not apply.
Synthetic opal jewelry is usually available in the market at an affordable price, making it an attractive option for fashion buyers.
Does synthetic opal have any powers or healing properties, and can it help people feel better?
People often say that gemstones can influence your emotions or help you spiritually or physically. However, synthetic opal is created in a lab. It is a man-made product and makes no emotional, spiritual, or healing claims.
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It has no traditional astrological significance
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No recognized healing property has been scientifically proven
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No spiritual or energy-based significance has been documented
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It is primarily a decorative gemstone for fashion and design purposes.
What is Synthetic Opal Suitable For?
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Matching jewelry sets
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Budget-friendly jewelry
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Trend-based fashion designs
Custom jewelry
If the focus is solely on look and affordability, synthetic opal is a practical choice. But if someone is looking for birthstone value, rarity, or traditional significance, a lab-created option does not fit that category.
In short, synthetic opal is an attractive, affordable, man-made gemstone, but it is not an October birthstone, and no healing or emotional powers are associated with it.
Natural Opal vs. Synthetic Opal – Core Differences
Now, let's understand the direct comparison from a practical buying perspective.
1. Formation Process
Natural opal forms naturally in the earth.
This is where the rarity difference begins.
Synthetic opal is created in the lab over weeks or months.
2. Appearance and Pattern
The pattern in natural opal is random. Sometimes broad flashes, sometimes pinfire patterns, sometimes patchy color play.
Synthetic opal often has a "lizard skin" or columnar pattern visible under a microscope. The pattern may appear more structured and repetitive.
If the stone appears very perfect, with evenly distributed color, chances are it is lab-created.
Read More:- Lab-Grown vs Natural Gemstones
3. Price Difference in Market
Price differences in the market are significant.
Natural opal: $150 to $10,000+ per carat (depending on quality and origin)
Synthetic opal: Usually found in the $10–$100 range
High-quality Australian black opal can even reach the price of premium diamonds.
This is why natural opal is considered for engagement rings or investment jewelry, while synthetic versions are popular in fashion jewelry.
4. Durability and Stability
Opal's hardness is around 5.5–6.5 on the Mohs scale. It is not as tough as diamond or sapphire.
Natural opal
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Water content is present
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Risk of cracking in extreme dryness
Synthetic opal
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Some lab versions are more stable
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Less unpredictable behavior due to their consistent structure
Natural opal may require extra care in US climates, especially in dry states (like Arizona or Nevada).
5. Resale and Investment Value
This is where the biggest difference comes in.
Natural opal
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Has collector demand
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Rare pieces may appreciate
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Resale is easier with certification
Synthetic opal
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Resale value is minimal
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Mostly falls in the fashion jewelry category
If you're looking for long-term value, natural stone is the better option.
How to Tell If an Opal Is Real or Synthetic
The most common question buyers have is, “How do I know if my opal is real?”
These practical checks help:
1. Play-of-Color Analysis
If you want to differentiate between real and synthetic opal, first observe the play of color. The colors in natural opal are deep and move with a 3D effect. When you rotate the stone, the shades seem to shift as they shine from within, creating a natural depth.
The colors in synthetic opal are bright, but can often appear surface-level or flat. While they may be flashy, they lack that natural depth and layered movement.
Simple example: Real opal has a hologram-like effect, while synthetic opal can sometimes feel like a sticker.
2. Pattern Observation
The color patches in natural opal are random and uneven. Synthetic opal may have a repeating pattern.
3. Magnification Test
Viewed through a 10x loupe, a column-like internal structure may be visible in synthetic opal.
4. Backing Check
Doublet or triplet opals have a layered structure. Solid natural opal is a single piece.
5. Certification
Obtaining a certificate from trusted gemological labs is the safest option. Buyers usually prefer certified stones.
Read More:- Best Bracelet for Men with Beads
Pros and Cons of Natural Opal and Synthetic Opal
Natural Opal
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Pros |
Cons |
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Unique appearance |
Expensive |
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High resale potential |
Sensitive to dryness |
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Rare and collectible |
Cracking risk |
Synthetic Opal
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Pros |
Cons |
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Budget-friendly |
Low resale value |
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Uniform appearance |
Not rare |
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Easily available |
Less Collectible Appeal |
Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?
If you're looking to invest in something rare and valuable for a long time, natural opal is the right choice. Natural opal is clearly a good investment option. On the other hand, if you want something that looks good without spending a fortune, synthetic opal is an option.
Synthetic opal is a good option for those who want stylish jewelry at a low price. Both natural opal and synthetic opal are popular.
Remember a simple rule:
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Long-term value? Go natural.
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Budget-friendly fashion? Go synthetic.
The decision always depends on your budget, preference, and purpose. If you want to make a smart purchase, don't ignore certification, seller reputation, and realistic pricing. Opal is a beautiful stone, just make sure you purchase it with the right knowledge.
People usually ask these questions:
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Is synthetic opal real?
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Natural opal vs lab opal price
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Does lab-created opal have value?
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Which opal is best for engagement ring?
These questions are often based on comparisons and buying decisions, so it's important to clearly understand the differences.
All About Natural vs Synthetic Opal
Q1: Is synthetic opal considered a birthstone for October?
Ans: No. Synthetic opal is not considered a birthstone for October. Only natural opal is recognized as the birthstone for October. Synthetic opals do not have the official status or traditional significance as natural opals.
Q2: Are synthetic opals cheaper than natural opals?
Ans: Yes. Synthetic opals are cheaper than natural opals. This is because synthetic opals are made in quantities, which makes them more affordable. Natural opals are hard to find and have to be mined, so they can be very expensive, ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars per carat depending on quality and origin.
Q3: Which is better for jewelry: natural or synthetic opal?
Ans: It really depends on what you want. If you are looking for something genuine or a birthstone to invest in, then natural opal is better. If you want something trendy and affordable, then synthetic opal is a good choice. Natural opal is better for special occasions, while synthetic opal is better for everyday fashion.
Q4: Do synthetic opals have any resale or collectible value?
Ans: Synthetic opals do not really have any resale or collectible value. This is because they are very common and do not usually increase in value over time. They are mainly used for decoration and to make affordable jewelry.
Q5: How should I care for natural vs synthetic opal jewelry?
Ans: Natural opal jewelry needs to be taken care of carefully. You should store opals carefully and avoid leaving them in direct sunlight for too long, as they can be damaged by dryness and sudden changes in temperature. Synthetic opal jewelry is generally stronger. It still needs to be cleaned and stored gently to keep it looking good.
