Opals are a beautiful gemstone that have been prized for centuries for their unique and iridescent appearance. However, there is some debate as to whether opals can be worn every day, as there are concerns about their durability and potential for damage. In this article, we will explore the question of whether opals can be worn every day, and provide some guidance on how to care for opals to ensure their longevity.
Understanding Opals
Opals are a type of mineraloid that are formed from silica, which is found in sandstone, basalt, and other rocks. They are typically found in Australia, but can also be found in other parts of the world, such as Mexico, Ethiopia, and the United States. Opals are known for their unique play of color, which is caused by the way that light is refracted through tiny silica spheres within the stone.
Opals are a relatively soft gemstone, with a hardness of around 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes them more susceptible to damage than harder gemstones like diamonds, sapphires, and rubies. Additionally, opals are porous and can absorb liquids, which can cause them to crack or lose their color.
Can Opals Be Worn Every Day?
The question of whether opals can be worn every day is a complex one. On one hand, opals are a relatively soft gemstone and are more susceptible to damage than harder gemstones. This means that if you wear an opal ring or necklace every day, it is more likely to become scratched, chipped, or otherwise damaged.
However, there are many people who do wear opals every day without any issues. The key to wearing opals every day is to take proper care of them, and to avoid exposing them to situations where they are likely to become damaged.
Tips for Wearing Opals Every Day
If you want to wear opals every day, there are several things that you can do to ensure their longevity and prevent damage. Here are some tips:
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Choose an opal with a protective setting
One of the best ways to protect your opal is to choose a setting that is designed to protect it. This might mean choosing a ring with a bezel setting, which covers the edges of the stone and provides a barrier against damage. You might also consider a halo setting, which adds an extra layer of protection around the stone.
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Avoid exposing your opal to harsh chemicals
Opals are porous and can absorb liquids, which can cause them to crack or lose their color. To avoid this, it’s important to avoid exposing your opal to harsh chemicals, such as cleaning products, perfumes, and lotions. If you do need to use these products, make sure to remove your opal jewelry first.
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Take your opal off before exercising or doing manual labor
Opals are relatively soft and can be scratched or chipped if they come into contact with hard surfaces. To avoid this, it’s best to take your opal jewelry off before engaging in activities that might damage it, such as exercising or doing manual labor.
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Store your opal jewelry carefully
When you’re not wearing your opal jewelry, it’s important to store it carefully to avoid damage. Opals are relatively soft and can be scratched or chipped if they come into contact with other hard surfaces. To avoid this, store your opal jewelry in a soft cloth bag or jewelry box.
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Clean your opal jewelry regularly
To keep your opal jewelry looking its best, it’s important to clean it regularly. However, you need to be careful when cleaning opals, as they are porous and can be damaged by harsh chemicals. To clean your opal jewelry, use a soft cloth or a mild soap and water solution. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners, as these can damage opals.
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Be aware of temperature changes
Opals can be sensitive to temperature changes, so it’s important to be aware of this when wearing them. For example, if you take your opal jewelry from a cold environment to a warm one, or vice versa, it can cause the stone to crack or become damaged. It’s best to avoid exposing your opals to extreme temperature changes.
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Get your opals checked by a jeweler regularly
Even with proper care, opals can become damaged over time. It’s a good idea to get your opal jewelry checked by a jeweler regularly to ensure that it is still in good condition. A jeweler can check for any signs of damage or wear, and can advise you on how to care for your opals to ensure their longevity.
In conclusion, opals can be worn every day if you take proper care of them. This means choosing a protective setting, avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals, taking your opal jewelry off before exercising or doing manual labor, storing your opal jewelry carefully, cleaning it regularly, being aware of temperature changes, and getting your opals checked by a jeweler regularly. By following these tips, you can enjoy wearing your opal jewelry every day without worrying about damage or wear.
