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Gemstones

Opal: Play of Colour Explained

Black, white, boulder and fire opals — how to judge colour play, pattern and durability.

What creates the colour

Microscopic silica spheres diffract light into flashes of spectral colour. Larger spheres produce rare reds.

Doublets and triplets

Thin opal slices glued to backing are cheaper assembled stones. Look at the side profile for a straight glue line.

Verification tools & references

Every Riakoob piece arrives certified, insured and covered by our 12-month value promise.

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