Doublet opal
Doublet Opal: A Complete Guide to the Versatile Gemstone
For gemstone use, most opals are cut and polished into a cabochon shape. The term solid opal refers to polished stones that consist entirely of precious opal without any backing or added materials. However, not all opal is suitable for solid use. When an opal layer is too thin to form a solid gem, it can be combined with other materials to create beautiful and durable gemstones.
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Doublet opal is an assembled gemstone, consisting of a relatively thin layer of precious opal that is backed by a layer of dark-colored material. The backing material can be ironstone, dark or black common opal, onyx, or obsidian. The purpose of this backing is to emphasize the opal’s play of color, enhancing its brilliance and making the gem appear more vibrant. The darker base helps to create a stronger contrast, which accentuates the opal’s colors.
Doublet opals are highly valued for their striking beauty and affordability compared to solid opals. By combining the natural opal layer with a dark backing, doublets can produce a similar effect to boulder opal or black opal, but at a more accessible price point. This makes doublet opals a popular choice for those seeking the visual appeal of high-quality opals without the significant cost.
Triplet Opal vs. Doublet Opal
An opal triplet is another type of assembled opal, similar to a doublet but with an additional layer. In a triplet, there is a thin layer of opal backed by a dark material, much like a doublet. However, a triplet also includes a domed cap of clear quartz or plastic that sits on top of the opal layer. This top cap acts as a protective layer, shielding the opal from damage and allowing it to take a high polish.
The clear top layer also functions as a magnifier, enhancing the play of color in the opal beneath. While triplets are beautiful, they tend to have a more artificial appearance compared to doublets and solid opals, primarily due to the protective cap. As a result, triplet opals are typically not classified as precious opals. Despite their lower perceived value, triplet opals are still appreciated for their vivid color display and durability, making them suitable for jewelry pieces that are subject to frequent wear.
One of the limitations of opal in jewelry is its sensitivity to heat and its predisposition to scratching, owing to its relatively high water content and natural softness. Doublet opals, with their dark backing and natural opal top layer, offer a solution that maintains the gemstone’s beauty while providing extra durability. This makes doublets a versatile and popular choice for various jewelry settings, such as rings, pendants, and earrings.
The Benefits of Doublet Opal in Jewelry
Doublet opals are especially popular in jewelry due to their attractive appearance and affordability. By using modern techniques of polishing and assembly, doublet opals can achieve an effect similar to that of more expensive opals, such as black or boulder opals. The opal layer is genuine and remains the visible and touchable part of the gemstone, giving doublet opals a natural look that is often preferred over triplets, which have a protective quartz or plastic cap.
Another advantage of doublet opals is their versatility. They can be used in a wide range of jewelry styles, including engagement rings, necklaces, stud earrings, bracelets, and more. The combination of an opal layer and a dark backing gives doublet opals an enhanced color display, making them an ideal choice for statement pieces. Additionally, the added support from the backing layer provides extra protection for the fragile opal, allowing it to be used in pieces that may be subject to daily wear.
Doublet opal
Other Types of Doublets: Garnet and Glass Doublets
In addition to opal doublets, there are other types of doublets used in the gemstone industry. A garnet and glass doublet consists of a top portion of natural garnet fused to a layer of colored glass. This type of doublet is often used to imitate more expensive gemstones. The garnet provides durability, while the glass gives the gemstone its color. When viewed in reflected light, a separation line between the garnet and the glass may be visible, revealing the assembled nature of the gem.
Garnet and glass doublets were first introduced around 1850, when it was discovered that molten glass could adhere to garnet. These doublets became popular as imitations for various gemstones in a wide range of colors, as the color of the glass was the only visible color. Garnet and glass doublets were widely produced until the early 1900s, when synthetic gemstones became available and gained popularity.
Doublet Opals: A Cost-Effective Alternative to Solid Opals
For those who love the vibrant play of color characteristic of precious opals but are deterred by the high cost, doublet opals provide an excellent alternative. These assembled gemstones retain the natural beauty of opal while offering enhanced durability and affordability. Doublets are crafted from genuine opal and a dark backing, which together create a striking visual effect that closely resembles that of more expensive solid opals.
When purchasing opal jewelry, it is important to understand the differences between solid opals, doublets, and triplets. Each type has its own unique characteristics and advantages. Doublet opals strike a balance between beauty, affordability, and practicality, making them a popular choice for a wide range of jewelry applications. Whether you are looking for a stunning pendant, an elegant ring, or a pair of eye-catching earrings, doublet opals can provide the perfect combination of brilliance and value.
Natural Opal for Sale in Our Gem Shop
We offer a wide selection of natural opals, including doublet opals, in our gem shop. Our opals are carefully selected to ensure the highest quality and beauty. If you are interested in custom-made opal jewelry, such as engagement rings, necklaces, stud earrings, bracelets, or pendants, please contact us for a quote. We take pride in creating unique and personalized pieces that highlight the natural beauty of opal.
Doublet Opal Video
For more information about doublet opals and to see their stunning play of color, watch the video below:
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