zoom_in Click to enlarge

White Opal

▲ ▼

description White Opal Overview

White opal is a variety of precious opal characterized by a white, milky, or light-colored base tone upon which internal spectral colors flash, a phenomenon known as play-of-color. The internal structure of this hydrated silica diffracts light to produce the shifting displays of color that make the stone distinct. It is predominantly mined in the Coober Pedy region of South Australia, which is widely recognized as one of the world's largest sources of opal. White opal is frequently cut into cabochons and set in jewelry, offering an alternative to the rarer black opal.

help White Opal FAQ

What makes white opal show rainbow colors?

White opal has a pale or milky body color with internal play-of-color. Tiny hydrated-silica structures diffract light, creating shifting spectral flashes as the stone moves.

Is white opal the same as common opal?

White opal usually refers to precious opal with visible play-of-color and a light body tone. Common opal can also be white, but it normally lacks the strong spectral display.

Why does white opal need careful handling?

Opal contains water as hydrated silica, so sudden heat or drying conditions can stress the material. Avoiding sharp temperature changes is a sensible care practice for white opal jewelry.

What does the white color in white opal describe?

The word white describes the opal’s body tone, which can range from white to milky or very light colored. The play-of-color is a separate optical effect visible inside the stone.

swap_horiz

Looking for White Opal alternatives? Compare top competitors ranked & scored

arrow_forward