Can Opal Jewelry Get Wet?
Can Opal Jewelry Get Wet? Everything You Need to Know
Opal jewelry is beloved for its vibrant play of colors and ethereal beauty, but it also raises an important question for owners and buyers alike: Can opal jewelry get wet? Whether you’re washing your hands, taking a shower, or caught in the rain, knowing how water affects opals can help you preserve their brilliance for years to come. This blog posts is exploring opals found in nature, most of the opals I use in my work are gilson opals. To see some examples of my work click here!
In this article, we'll explore the relationship between opals and moisture, how to care for your opal jewelry, and what to avoid to keep your gemstone shining bright.
What Are Opals?
Opals are a type of hydrated amorphous silica, meaning they contain a certain amount of water — typically between 3% to 21% by weight. Their signature iridescence, known as play-of-color, is due to the unique structure of silica spheres that diffract light.
There are two main types of opals:
-
Natural solid opals (mined from the earth, retaining their natural form)
-
Doublets and triplets (layers of opal with backing or protective top layers)
Understanding which type you own is key to determining how water will affect it.
So, Can Opal Jewelry Get Wet?
1. Solid Opals
Solid opals are relatively safe around water. Because they are a single piece of natural stone, exposure to water — such as brief contact from washing hands or rain — is unlikely to damage them. However, prolonged soaking (like swimming or bathing) is discouraged. Over time, excessive exposure to water can cause the opal to:
-
Crack or craze due to sudden changes in temperature or humidity
-
Lose its color or appear cloudy
2. Opal Doublets and Triplets
These are more vulnerable to water because they consist of multiple layers bonded with adhesive. If water seeps between the layers:
-
The adhesive can weaken or deteriorate
-
The opal may delaminate
-
Foggy spots or cloudiness can develop beneath the surface
To avoid damage, never immerse doublet or triplet opals in water.
Tips to Care for Opal Jewelry
-
Remove before bathing or swimming – Avoid prolonged exposure to water, especially for layered opals.
-
Avoid extreme temperature changes – Rapid temperature shifts can cause the opal to crack.
-
Clean gently – Use a soft, damp cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners or harsh chemicals.
-
Store properly – Keep your opal jewelry in a cool, dry place. For solid opals, storing with a bit of moisture (like a damp cotton ball) in a plastic bag can help prevent dehydration in dry environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wash my hands with an opal ring on?
If it’s a solid opal, brief contact with water is fine. Just be sure to dry it afterward. For doublets or triplets, it’s better to take the ring off.
Will water ruin my opal?
Not instantly, but repeated or prolonged exposure can cause damage — especially for layered opals.
How do I know if my opal is solid or a doublet/triplet?
Hold the opal under light. Doublets and triplets often have a dark backing or a visible line separating layers. A jeweler can also help you identify the type.
Final Thoughts
Opal jewelry can get wet, but with caution. Solid opals are more water-resistant than composite stones like doublets and triplets. To ensure your opal jewelry retains its natural beauty, minimize water exposure, clean it gently, and store it carefully.
Whether you own a fiery Australian opal or a delicate Ethiopian one, a little care goes a long way in preserving the magic of this stunning gemstone.