Lab Opal vs Natural Opal
Lab-Grown Opals vs Natural Opals: What’s the Difference?
Opals are revered for their mesmerising play-of-colour and unique patterns. When shopping for opal jewellery, you may come across terms like lab-grown, synthetic, and natural opals. While all can be beautiful in their own way, there are key differences in value, durability, and authenticity that you should consider. Here’s a breakdown to help you make an informed choice.
What Are Natural Opals?
Natural opals are mined from the earth and are formed over millions of years. They are composed primarily of silica and water, giving them their signature iridescence. Each natural opal is truly one of a kind, with patterns and colours that can never be replicated exactly.
Natural Opal: Unique patterns and colours formed over millions of years.
What Are Lab-Grown Opals?
Lab-grown opals, also called lab-created opals, are manufactured in a controlled environment. While they share the same chemical composition and structure as natural opals, they lack the organic process and history behind natural stones.
- Appearance: Lab-grown opals often feature overly vivid colours and symmetrical patterns, which may appear artificial to some.
- Durability: They lack the water content of natural opals, making them less prone to cracking but also reducing their authenticity.
What Are Synthetic Opals?
Synthetic opals often refer to imitation stones made from resin or plastic. Unlike lab-grown opals, synthetic opals do not replicate the chemical or structural properties of natural stones and are considered lower-quality imitations.
- Appearance: Synthetic opals often appear "too perfect" or overly uniform, with a plastic-like feel.
- Durability: Resin-based synthetic opals are more prone to fading, scratching, or cracking over time.
Synthetic Opals: Manufactured imitations with overly uniform patterns.
Pros and Cons of Lab-Grown and Natural Opals
Natural Opals
Pros:
- Authentic and rare, with unique patterns and colours.
- Highly valued by collectors and jewellery enthusiasts.
- An organic gemstone with a timeless, natural beauty.
Cons:
- More expensive than lab-grown or synthetic options.
- Requires proper care to prevent cracking or crazing due to water content.
Lab-Grown Opals
Pros:
- Lower price point compared to natural opals.
- More durable due to reduced water content.
Cons:
- Lacks the uniqueness and organic formation of natural opals.
- Colours and patterns may appear overly artificial to some buyers.
Which Should You Choose?
If you value authenticity, history, and individuality, natural opals are the ideal choice. They offer unmatched beauty and uniqueness, though they require a higher budget and more care. Lab-grown opals, on the other hand, are a more affordable and durable alternative but may not have the same charm as their natural counterparts.
For those seeking genuine opal jewellery, natural opals remain the gold standard and are a timeless investment.