Ethiopian opal is one of the most beautiful gemstones available today, and people love its vibrant colour. Due to its affordable price compared to Australian opal, it has become increasingly popular among gemstone lovers. However, as demand grows, so too does the market for fake and real opal, making it difficult to distinguish between them.
In this article, we’ll provide simple, expert-approved tips to help you identify genuine Ethiopian opal. Whether you’re considering buying an Ethiopian opal online or already own one, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
1. Understood What a Real Ethiopian Opal Looks Like
It’s essential to identify Ethiopian opal before purchasing it. When you look at it, it’s famous for its rainbow-like colours, which shift when you shake it. If you see dull or flat colours in the opal that don’t shift, it’s a flame quality, which you should pay attention to.
Look for:
- Bright sheen of colours
- Jelly or translucent appearance (in Velo opal)
- Sky patterns – genuine opal is never completely uniform.
2. Check for Common Treatments
You should be aware that some sellers use resins, dyes, or smoke to enhance the beauty of inexpensive opal. These treatments reduce the stone’s value over time and cause it to fade.
Signs of Treated Opal:
- Slimy or oily feel (due to rough cutting)
- Dark colour near crack edges
- Art background that appears artificial
To be safe, always ask: “Is it treated or natural opal?”
3. Ask for a Lab Certificate
Whenever a natural Ethiopian opal gemstone is available, it is lab-certified. Lab certified means it has been verified as natural and untreated by a gemologist. Reputable laboratories include IGI, GRS, and IGL. This will give you peace of mind and help with subsequent completion.
Pro tip: Don’t trust just any certificate – verify the lab online if necessary.
4. Try the Water Test (at Your Own Risk)
This simple test can sometimes be beneficial:
- Submerge the opal in water for a few minutes.
- If the colour disappears or the stone becomes completely clear, it may be hydrophane Ethiopian opal (which is still natural).
- But if the colour becomes dull or the colour bleeds, it may be a fake.
- Note: Always exercise caution. If you’re unsure, discard it and have it tested in a lab.
5. Trust the Source
Where you buy Ethiopian opal matters. Trust only genuine sellers who:
- Offer lab-certified gemstones
- Share clear photos/videos
- Have return policies
- Are open about origin and treatment
- Avoid deals that sound too good to be true – they usually are.
Final Words: Choose Certified, Transparent Sellers
Natural Ethiopian Opal is a priceless treasure, but only if it is genuine and untreated. Follow the tips above to protect yourself from duping yourself and enjoy the true beauty of this magical stone.
Are you looking for 100% natural, laboratory-certified Ethiopian Opal?
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