Most gemstones are valued for how they reflect light on the surface, but the opal works from the inside out. Water seeped through sandstone millions of years ago, depositing tiny silica spheres that split light into flashes of neon green, coral and violet. No two stones show the exact same spectrum, which is why this gemstone is almost impossible to replicate or standardise.
Jewellers often shape opals into smooth cabochons to give that colour room to move. Today’s designs stay away from vintage mountings and toward bolder territory, placing milky opals into yellow gold bezels, statement rings and pendants. As the birthstone of October, there’s no better time to shop for an opal, whether it’s for yourself or a friend celebrating another year around the sun. MOJEH curates an edit of the pieces worth investing in this season.
