Giving an Opal: Which Stone Suits Which Occasion
Opal knowledge · Gifting
A stone that exists only once, for a person who exists only once
An opal as a gift has one advantage no other gemstone offers: there is no second copy. No diamond, no pearl and no sapphire is as clearly one of a kind as an opal, because the play of colour runs differently in every stone. If you want to give something that cannot be copied, you are in the right place. That leaves the question: which one, for which occasion, and how do you recognise good goods.
For those in a hurry: For a first opal a pale stone in silver works well, because it is uncomplicated and suits everyday wear. For a round anniversary it may be a dark stone with strong fire. And if you are unsure, take your lead from the jewellery already being worn: silver or gold, understated or striking.
Why is an opal a good gift?
It is demonstrably one of a kind
With diamonds, sameness is the mark of quality. With opal every pattern is unique, even in stones from the same mine.
It tells a story
Origin, formation over millions of years, the travelling play of colour. When you hand it over you have something to tell.
It carries meaning
Birthstone of October, stone of the opal wedding on the 21st anniversary. An occasion often comes built in.
Which opal suits which occasion?
A birthday in October
The most obvious occasion of all, because the opal is the birthstone of the month. Anyone with an October birthday gets a gift with a built in reason.
21st wedding anniversary
The opal wedding. The one anniversary where the stone gives the name.
Engagement
Possible, but with care. Opal is softer than diamond and needs a protective setting.
Just because
The underrated occasion. A pair of studs with a pale opal is a gift without pressure and goes with almost anything.
Sorted by occasion you will find a narrower selection under gift ideas. For round anniversaries it is worth looking at the list of all wedding anniversaries, where every year has a material.
How do you match someone's taste without asking?
The trickiest part of any jewellery gift. Three observations are usually enough.
Look at the metal
Does she wear silver or gold? People are remarkably consistent about this. A gold piece given to someone who wears silver will stay in the box, however beautiful the stone.
Look at the size
Anyone who wears fine, small pieces will feel uncomfortable with a large statement ring. And the other way round.
For rings: rather a necklace
Ring size is the most common source of error. Necklaces and earrings always fit.
If you still find it difficult: our opal finder leads to a selection in four steps.
Which three mistakes should you avoid?
What goes wrong
1. Ordering too late. With one off pieces there is no reordering. Once the stone is gone, it is gone.
2. Not checking authenticity. Doublets and imitations are widespread with opal in particular. No proof, no gift.
3. Not mentioning the care. An opal dislikes chemicals and heat. One sentence when handing it over saves trouble.
Further reading: how to spot a real opal and caring for an opal correctly.
If you do not know their taste
Then take the necklace. Necklaces forgive almost everything: they need no size, they go with any style, and they are worn more often than rings. On colour you are safest with a pale stone and a colourful play, which clashes with no wardrobe. And should it still miss the mark, you can return it within 30 days, no discussion.
Common questions about the opal as a gift
Who is an opal suitable for as a gift?
For anyone who likes colour and is looking for something one of a kind. It suits people born in October particularly well, because the opal is their birthstone, and the 21st wedding anniversary, the opal wedding.
Which opal works as a first gift?
A pale opal in silver. Pale stones are more affordable, less sensitive and go with almost any wardrobe.
Ring, necklace or earrings?
Necklaces and earrings are the safe choice, because no size has to fit. A ring is only worth it if you know the ring size for certain.
How do I know when buying that the opal is genuine?
A genuine opal shows a travelling play of colour as you tilt it. At the side edge you can see whether it consists of one layer or is glued.
What does a good opal gift cost?
The range is wide and depends above all on body tone and liveliness of the play of colour, not on size alone.
Do I need to say something about care when giving it?
It helps. An opal should be protected from chemicals, sharp changes in temperature and hard knocks, and stored away from harder stones.
If you are unsure or have questions, you are welcome to contact us at any time, even if you did not buy the opal from us. Contact form, email cs@libertyangels.de or call +49 171 1603048.
Verified authenticity
by Liberty Angels
Only natural, genuine opals. Each certificate is linked online to your order, so it is tamper-proof.
Written by Anton Kehler
Gründer FAERELLI & Liberty Angels
