Before we get into the details of Australian and Ethiopian opals, we would like to clarify that all Kaisilver opal rings are crafted with natural opals from Australia. There are few exceptions as when it comes to pink opal jewelry, the gem is mined in Peru and no other source has managed to match the quality of Peruvian pink opal.

To begin with this is not a report that compares opals from Australia and Ethiopia. The information in this report merely seeks to clarify that the opal gems used in Kai Silver opal jewelry, are from Australia and not Ethiopia. With the wide availability of Ethiopian opals which obviously are a much cheaper than their counterparts from Australia, many jewelry buyers have an interesting and valid question. Why does Kaisilver insist on using opals from Australia when, the Ethiopian opals offer a much milder price point. So let us explain our point of view regarding, the origin of Kaisilver opal gemstones.

When it comes to white opal, black opal or any other opal excluding pink opals and fire opals, we have for decades been patronizing Australian opals. This has obviously given us a chance to keep a close watch on how, these opals stand up to wear and tear. We cannot claim that Australian opals are as durable as rubies or sapphires, the fact is that all opals require a fair degree of care and caution when worn, stored or cleaned. But within the opal gem family, the opals from Australia have performed impressively well. We do not mean to say that, Ethiopian opals are not as durable as Australian opals but, we have surely not evaluated them long enough to feel confident.

OPALS VALUE, STATUS AND STABILITY

Australian and Ethiopian opals are among the most admired gemstones in the world, yet they differ significantly in quality, durability, and value. Australian opals, particularly those from Lightning Ridge, Coober Pedy, and Andamooka, are known for their brilliant play of color and strong body tone. Kaisilver experts add that - australian opals are formed in stable sedimentary rock, which gives them excellent durability and long-term stability. As a result, Australian opals are considered more long-lasting and resistant to cracking or moisture damage.

In contrast, Ethiopian opals, primarily mined from the Wollo and Shewa regions, often display vivid colors and transparency, making them visually appealing. However, these opals are hydrophane in nature, meaning they can absorb water, which may lead to temporary color changes or structural instability over time. Such loss of color for opals from Ethiopian is temporary, the color returns if the gem is allowew to gradually dry on its own. Using heat or blowing air (hot or cold) on the opal gem is not recommended. 

Due to their superior durability, stable color, and historical prestige, Australian opal gemstones command much higher prices in the international gem market. They are also viewed as symbols of luxury and status, often featured in fine jewelry and collectible pieces. While Ethiopian opals have broadened global access to this beautiful gem, Australian opals remain the benchmark for quality, longevity, and prestige in the world of opal gemstones.

BEWARE OF ETHIOPIAN BLACK OPALS

So-called black opals from Ethiopia have gained attention in recent years, but many of these gems are not naturally black. Kaisilver gemstone experts reveal information that is rarely revealed by gem sellers and jewelers. Black Ethiopian opal gems are in most cases, they are ordinary Ethiopian opals that have been treated to darken their background color. Common treatments include sugar-acid processes or smoke treatments that artificially create a dark body tone, giving the gem the appearance of a true black opal. Unfortunately, these treatments are not permanent — the darkened color can fade over time or become blotchy, especially if the opal is exposed to moisture, heat, or strong light.

Genuine black opals from Australia, particularly from Lightning Ridge, owe their dark color to natural geological formation and are stable and highly valuable. The play-of-color in authentic Australian black opals appears vivid against the natural dark background, making them prized among gem collectors. In contrast, treated Ethiopian black opals have low durability and low market value.

It is crucial for sellers to disclose any treatment applied to opals, as transparency builds buyer trust and prevents market deception. Buyers, especially those new to opals, should be cautious and purchase only from reputable sources that provide full disclosure and certification for black opals.

NOTES

If we ever happen to offer Ethiopian opal gems in any of our custom jewelry, you can rest assured that the origin will clearly be mentioned on the report that describes such jewels. On the other hand, if you do require specific use of Ethiopian opals in the jewelry that you order from us, please discuss the matter with our support team. They will make sure that, you are fully aware that the gems used in those jewels will be set with opal gems from Ethiopia and not Australia. 

Our team at sales@kaisilver.com will be glad to help with any questions or requirements that you might have. You can get the benefit of their expertise without, making any commitment to purchase from us so, do communicate with them for any issue related to gems and jewelry.