Opal doublets are an “assembled” or “composite” opal made of a somewhat thin layer of precious light opal attached to a dark backing. The top opal layer may be domed or flat.
The main advantage of an opal doublet over a solid opal is lower cost. But doublets don’t compromise on beauty — the dark backing enhances the opal’s play-of-color, mimicking the rare but often expensive black opal.
Plus, doublets reduce waste, stabilize the opal, and open up opportunities for all sorts of jewelry designs.
FAQs
What is an opal doublet?
An opal doublet consists of a thin layer of precious crystal or white opal glued onto a dark backing. The backing is often ironstone but may be industrial glass (e.g. Vitrolite), plastic, or dark-colored common opal.
How are opal doublets made?
It starts with a piece of translucent to transparent precious light opal that’s attractive but maybe too thin for a solid opal. Usually, the jeweler will find some black “potch” (common opal) of similar size.
Next, the sides that will be facing each other are sanded flat. Then the jeweler mixes some dark pigment like black oxide with a lapidary glue like Epoxy 330, applies it to the backing, and attaches the opal piece.
Once dry, the backing is grinded to have an even thickness and balance the opal’s depth. Lastly, the doublet is grinded down to the desired measurement and shape, then polished.
How is an opal doublet different from a solid opal?
Solid opals are opal through and through — no added materials. Doublets are thinner layers of solid opal glued to a backing. The backing may be another piece of dark opal, a rock like ironstone, or a synthetic material like plastic.
Are opal doublets real opals?
Yes, in part. The top layer is real opal, and the bottom may even be real opal too if it’s a potch backing. But an opal doublet is still technically a composite stone, so some of its beauty is enhanced by the dark base.
Why are opal doublets for sale more affordable?
First and foremost, doublets use less opal than solid opals. Plus, doublets are often made with scraps, so the opal itself may not be as high-quality or look as vibrant without the dark backing. Lastly, doublets aren’t as durable as solid opals.
Can opal doublets be used in jewelry?
Absolutely. You can find stunning opal doublets for sale to set into pendants, earrings, rings, you name it. Some jewelry is more vulnerable than others, though, so the proper settings and care procedures are essential.
How long do opal doublets last?
Opal doublets can last a lifetime if you care for them properly and choose opal doublets for sale that are made well with protective settings like solid backings and a bezel, four-prong, caged, or raised prong setting.
How do I care for an opal doublet?
Number one: keep it dry. Soaking your doublet or letting it get wet repeatedly will wear down the glue and even diminish the appearance. You can use a slightly damp cloth to wipe down your doublet, but dry it thoroughly.
Remove opal doublet jewelry before any water-based activities (e.g. swimming, showering, dishes, etc.) Additionally, take off opal doublet rings before strenuous activities and avoid sharp blows to the stone.
Store your doublet in a soft container (like a fabric-lined box) away from extreme temperature changes, humidity, and harder gemstones.
Where can I find high-quality opal doublets for sale?
Opal Auctions has a wide selection of top-quality opal doublets for sale, all sold by Verified Sellers who are only approved after a rigorous vetting process.
We also provide ongoing quality control via our Opal Sheriff program, where you can request a free audit on any opal doublets for sale and an independent gemologist will review the listing’s accuracy.
You can find a first-rate opal doublet to make an offer on, buy right away, or place a bid on if it’s an auction listing. Look for a green price with a cart symbol for Buy it Now listings or a gray price with a gavel for auction listings.
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