If you’re looking for something unique, shimmery, and truly a piece of Earth’s magic - opal jewelry is for you. The gemstone’s colors range from milky white to sky blue, but the core beauty of the stone radiates in how it’s made.
In this blog, you’ll learn how opals are formed and the meaning and symbolism of opals. Plus, we’ll share our favorite opal pieces from our ever-growing body jewelry collection, including belly rings, nose rings, and earrings.
How are opals formed?
One of the most recognizable gemstones, opals are wonders of the Earth. Why? They form when silica-rich water seeps into deep cracks and voids in the Earth’s crust. As the water eventually evaporates, it leaves behind a silica deposit that eventually leads to an opal being formed. Magic!
However, it should be noted that this process takes a VERY long time - we’re talking millions of years! But when you see how beautiful these gemstones are - it’s no question they are worth the wait.
The meaning & symbolism of opal
The word “opal” comes from the Greek word opallios, meaning “to see a change in color.” And it’s also linked to the Sanskrit word “upala,” which means “valuable stone.”
From a symbolic perspective, opals are known to be symbols of hope, innocence, purity, and truth. And they’re said to inspire one’s imagination and boost originality. So if you’re looking for something special for a writer, artist, designer, or creative soul - these gemstones are perfect gifts that will spark their creative side.
Fun fact: ancient Greeks thought opals guarded them against diseases.
Is opal a birthstone?
Yes! Opals are of October’s birthstones along with pink tourmaline. They’re also the designated gemstone to mark a couple’s 14th year of marriage.
That said, at Avanti, we think opals make for beautiful gifts for anyone - no matter your birth month or anniversary status.
How to care for opal jewelry
Knowing how to properly care for your opal jewelry is important to keep it shimmery and in high-quality condition.
We recommend cleaning your opal by giving it a quick rinse under room temperature/warm tap water or freshwater - but not saltwater. It is a sensitive stone, so be mindful not to over-rinse it. If you still notice extra dust and dirt, consider using a mild soap and then brushing it with a soft cloth.
Opal Jewelry: Earrings, Nose Rings, and Navel Rings
We can’t get enough of opal! Our collection of body jewelry at Avanti features opal earrings, nose rings, and navel rings that are eye-catching, beautiful, and designed to make you feel as one-of-a-kind as the opals you’re wearing.
These cabochon cut opals are hand-set in a mirror-finish titanium bezel ensuring everlasting sparkle.
This slim rose gold navel ring is polished to a perfect mirror finish and holds tightly onto the top, so you don’t have to worry about losing it!
Cast out of solid 316L Surgical Steel, these pronged opal clickers will hold their beauty and keep their beautiful shine for years to come.
Shop our full collection of stylish and comfortable threadless jewelry!