Caring for Your Opals
Loretta Clayton·October 03, 2025

Opals are beautiful but delicate gemstones. With a modest rating on the Mohs hardness scale, they are suitable for jewelry but should be worn with care to avoid scratches or breaks. While generally stable, opals can develop fine fracture lines (called crazing) when exposed to intense heat or light.
For cleaning, the safest method is warm, soapy water—avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners. When in doubt, have your opals inspected and cleaned by a professional jeweler to ensure they remain in excellent condition.