Australian Opal Vs Ethiopian Opal - What's the Difference?

Opals are considered one of the best and most fascinating gemstones known for their play of colour. The unique quality of an opal is the different colours it displays. Although the stone has various types in which they are found in the market, one important thing is to understand the origin of the stone.

Today in this blog we will be discussing opals from two origins, which are the Australian opals and the Ethiopian opals. Our aim is to highlight the characteristics of both the opals, their value, durability and, most importantly, understanding the difference between both the gemstones. So, without any further ado, let’s get into the specifics.

What is Australian Opal Gemstone?

Australian opal gemstones are equivalent to the gold standards across the world. These are found in the deposits of areas such as Coober Pedy, Lightening Ridge, and Queensland. Australian opals are the sedimentary deposits which exudes astrological benefits and are best suited for people seeking them.

These are the stones that have been commercially mined for over a century and are known for their exceptional stability and brilliance.

Characteristics of Australian Opal

Some prominent characteristics of Australian Opal are as follows:

• Sedimentary Formation: These opals don't absorb water since they aren't porous.
• Extremely Sturdy: Opals from Australia are thought to be more stable and less likely to break.
• Numerous Types: Boulder Opal, White Opal, Black Opal, and Crystal Opal are among them.
• Higher Cost: Australian opals are typically more expensive than Ethiopian opals because of their rarity and durability.

Also check:- A Guide Different Types of Opal Gemstone

What is Ethiopian Opal?

Ethiopian opals are a relatively new discovery in the jewellery market and even in the gemstone world. Where the majority of gemstones have been in existence for ages and centuries, the Ethiopian opals have been known since the early 2000s in the deposits of Wollo Province. Ethiopian opals are formed from the volcanic activity, making them hydrophane in nature.

Unlike the Australian opals, these can absorb water, which affects their appearance in the long run. When considering the astrological purpose of looking at a gemstone, these aren’t as reliable as that of an Australian opal.

Characteristics of Ethiopian Opal

Some of the key characteristics of an Ethiopian Opal are mentioned below which distinguishes them from the Australian Opal:

• Ethiopian Opals' hydrophane nature allows them to absorb water and alter colour or transparency when wet.
• Brighter Colour Play: They frequently display a vibrant colour play that occasionally rivals that of the finest Australian opals.
• Lightweight & Porous: The porous structure of these opals makes them lighter.
• Reasonably priced: Ethiopian opals are often less expensive than Australian opals, which appeals to purchasers.

Australian Opal vs Ethiopian Opal- Differences

Some of the differences that demarcates an Australian Opal from the Ethiopian Opal are as follows:

Also check:-  Top 7 Benefits of Opal Stone

Opal Grades- For Quality

Based on characteristics including colour intensity, brightness, and clarity, both Australian and Ethiopian opals are graded differently. Opal quality is categorised as follows:

• AAA Grade: The best quality, with brilliant colour play and no obvious defects.
• AA Grade: Outstanding colour with possible minor flaws.
• A Grade: Some inclusions or patches, good colour.
• Grades B and C: Less appealing, frequently having drab or patchy hues.

Ethiopian Opal Price vs Australian Opal Price

Due to the plentiful supply, Ethiopian opals are typically more reasonably priced. Colour, clarity, and general quality, however, can affect costs. The downside of the Ethiopian opals is that these do not possess the same kind of astrological benefit as that of the Australian opal. Additionally, due to their hydrophane nature, these are more receptive to fading over time.

Whereas, on the other hand, Australian opals, particularly Lightning Ridge Black Opals, are some of the costliest in the world; a carat can cost thousands of dollars. As for the opals, apart from black ones, Australia produces the best stones with great astrological properties. Most importantly, these are ethically sourced, making them reliable and environmentally friendly.

Factors Affecting Opal Prices

Here are some of the factors that highly influences the change in price across the globe:

• Opal Type: Boulder and White Opals are the next most expensive varieties, after Black Opals, therefore, black opals are the rarest and most expensive opals out there in the market.
• Play-of-Colour: Rarer and more vivid hues (purple, orange, and red) cost more.
• Carat Weight: Larger, better-quality opals are worth a lot more.
• Origin: Because of their stability and scarcity, Australian opals fetch greater prices.

Types of Opal Gemstone

Some types of opal gemstones are as follows:

1. White Opal

This is the first and most sold opal stone in the market with a light or white body tone, which is known for its bright and vibrant colour. A white opal is found in two forms, one is white opal and another is white opal with fire.

2. Black Opals

These are the most uncommon and looked-after gemstones. The reason behind them is because the dark body of the stone helps in exhibiting the vivid colour play in a more vibrant manner. This makes the black opals highly valuable and looked after in the United States of America.

3. Fire Opal Stone

Fire opals consist of a warm body colour that has a colour range from yellow to red. Unlike every opal, this one has little to no colour play, but on the other hand, the stone is known for its fiery hues and is simultaneously gaining popularity in Southwest America.

4. Boulder Opals

These opal gemstones are found embedded in the ironstone. The unique quality of this gemstone is that these are combined with the host rock and the vivid opal flashes. This unique combination provides a rugged appeal to the stone and jewellery, which is highly appreciated by the American market.

5. Crystal Opals

Lastly, there is crystal opal that is transparent or semi-transparent, which shows an exceptional display of play-of-colours. The original opal gemstone is one of the finest opals considered for the high-end jewellery in America.

Conclusion

Australian opal is a superior option if you're searching for a gemstone that is more resilient and worthy of investment. However, Ethiopian Opal is a great substitute if you're looking for an inexpensive opal with a vibrant colour display.

Always take durability, grade, and origin into account when buying an opal to be sure you're getting the greatest deal!

When you think to buy opal stone online, make sure you are working with a reliable platform such as GemsRoot that has lab-certified gemstones, worldwide shipping, and transparent and unmatched prices. You’ll get all the varieties at a reasonable price with proper guidance and quality assurance. You can contact us at +91 114-314-8316. We also offer consultation for a better understanding of what to wear and how to purchase the stone. Contact us to know more!