Can You Have An Opal Engagement Ring

Opals for October- a symbolic engagement ring

We’re in the throes of October so of course it makes sense to discuss the birthstone associated with it- Opal. Thus leading us to answer “Can you use opal in an engagement ring?” Whether you are proposing this month or not, it’s good to keep this birthstone in mind for a bespoke design. While we’ll give you some important facts about opal, we can’t resist sharing some design tips too. After all that’s what jewellery designers love!

Facts

Opal is a mesmerising gemstone that has a play of colour unlike any other- in blue, black and white. With this in mind, none are ever identical! This colour play is often described like an illusion of light moving across the surface, giving off a magical feel. With an ethereal essence, it’s no wonder it’s seen as a sign of hope, purity and promotes imagination and creativity. Before choosing opal, the most important thing to know is that they are a 5.5-6.5 on the Mohs scale. This means they’re really delicate and also rather porous.

This means you must not:

• Wear it in water
• Expose it to chemicals/cleaning products
• Leave it for prolonged periods in extreme conditions such as heat or damp places.

As beautiful as it is, it’s fragile and can break. Treating it with care and designing it in a safe and secure setting will of course help. And so…

Design tips

For over 25 years we’ve seen opals used in bespoke engagement rings. Without a doubt, the appeal lies in its undeniable beauty. So, if you’re set on this gemstone, here’s some opal design inspiration!

Classic White

Usually, the ‘classic’ image of an opal is the creamy white cabochon with rainbow flashes. These partner beautifully with the warmth of yellow gold. Alternatively, they stand out in white metals.

Katie opted for a vintage and nature blend. The central opal is all-around set (safe!) with beaded detailing and leaf shaping either side. It definitely enhances a majestic energy.

Alex wanted a more modern look for his partner. The opal is all-around set as well but sits above a trio of diamonds. What makes this whole piece more special is that each element was re-purposed from Alex’s heirloom jewellery. It’s dramatic and sentimental all in one.

Lindsey’s white gold engagement ring is a beautiful alternative to the usual round cabochon cut. Her and partner Charlie chose this cabochon pear cut opal from a selection that were sourced for them. It is all around set with a halo of diamonds with the white metal accentuating each gemstone’s unique sparkle.

Captivating Black and Blue

Remus chose a blue triplet opal for his partner, reminiscent of a favourite piece he gifted her before. He continued the remarkable colour flashes with a rainbow of sapphires, tourmaline and diamonds.

Rupert wanted to complete Laura’s opal jewellery collection with the most important addition… An engagement ring! The mesmerising Australian opal is the main attraction in the centre, where each colourful speck shines. To bring in tradition diamonds in the shoulders complete the look.

Ultimately there’s a host of inspiration for keeping your opal safe. The big question (before you pop the question) is how to tell your love story around it.