Australian fire opals are precious opals from the opal capital of the world, Australia. As precious opals, these gems display the fiery play-of-color that gives them their namesake.
Technically, there are two definitions of fire opal: 1) the translucent to transparent red, orange, yellow, or brown opals best known from Mexico, or 2) the precious opals with various body colors but especially strong play-of-color, most desired with fiery red to orange color-play.
While Mexican fire opals can be precious or common, Australian fire opals are always precious — the price of these fire opals often depends on the strength of their color-play.
The symbolism of Australian fire opals is rooted in joy, passion, clarity, balance, hope, and inspiration. Indigenous Australians have folklore about the natural fire opal’s colors originating from the creator deity coming to Earth on a rainbow.
FAQs
How does fire opal compare to other types of opals?
A high-quality Australian fire opal is among the rarest, most beautiful types of opal. Not only is red the rarest opal color, but Australia is also known for producing the highest quality precious opal in the world.
What factors affect the value of an Australian fire opal?
Opal grading is complex, but the main factors for Australian fire opal price are body tone (black is best), play-of-color directionality (none is best), and brightness (B1 is best). Lots of bright reds in the Australian fire opal’s color-play also boosts value.
How can I identify a genuine Australian fire opal?
A major sign that a “natural” fire opal is actually synthetic or simulated include patterns that are too perfect (often with a vertical columnar pattern from the side). A very glassy top and/or a visible seam at the bottom is a sign of an assembled doublet or triplet opal. The best way to know if it’s a genuine, natural fire opal is to consult a gem expert or ask for certification from a third-party lab.
What should I look for in an Australian fire opal gemstone certificate?
A fire opal gemstone certificate should come from a reputable, third-party lab of expert gemologists. Your natural fire opal’s certificate should ideally have a unique reference number that’s searchable on the lab’s website.
Are there any treatments or enhancements done to fire opals?
Some Australian fire opals are treated with dye or smoking (often to simulate precious black opal) or Opticon oiling (to hide blemishes or instabilities like crazing). Here at Opal Auctions, we pride ourselves on offering all natural fire opal and keeping sellers accountable for specifying any gemstone treatments through our Opal Sheriff Program.
What is the best cut for an Australian fire opal?
Like most opals, Australian fire opals display their fiery color-play best when cut into cabochons. You’ll see the highest prices on fire opal cabochons that are symmetrical, not too thin or thick, and not too wide or narrow, along with having a smooth, full dome.
Can Australian fire opal be used for engagement rings and other special jewelry pieces?
Yes, they can! Australian fire opals are a popular alternative to diamonds for engagement rings and other sentimental jewelry, and they’re often set with other gemstones that compliment the array of colors in the opal. Just be sure to choose an opal ring with proper settings, as opals aren’t as scratch-resistant as other stones, and know how to properly take care of your natural fire opal engagement ring.
Are there any special care instructions for Australian fire opal jewelry?
Yes, natural fire opal jewelry (and all other opal accessories) require proper care to maintain their durability and shine. Avoid mechanical systems like steam or ultrasonic cleaners; instead, use a soft cloth and warm, soapy water to wipe down your natural fire opal. If it’s a doublet or triplet, wipe the opal with a soft cloth dipped in a mild cleaning solution — soaking it in water can affect the glue. Store your fire opal separately from other gemstones in a location that’s not subject to extreme temperature changes.
Where can I buy certified Australian fire opals online?
Here at Opal Auctions, we have hundreds of high-quality natural fire opals available at competitive prices. Our Verified Sellers go through a rigorous vetting process, plus you can always request a free audit of any item through our Opal Sheriff program, where a panel of third-party experts will determine if the Australian fire opal listing is accurate.
What is the process for purchasing Australian fire opals from Opal Auctions?
First, create your account to track your opal order and communicate with sellers. Then, peruse the hundreds of natural fire opals available on our site, utilizing our search refining tools to narrow down the fire opal price, size, cut, color, or type of listing. Filter by “Catalogue” or “Make an Offer” to buy fixed-price fire opals right away. Or you can immerse yourself into the world of online opal auctions by bidding on a reserve or no-reserve listing Australian fire opal with minimum bids starting at just $1.
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