How to take care of your Australian opal?

A fragile beauty
Australian opals are among the most stable in the world. It is not uncommon for stones mined over 100 years ago to still be intact today if they have been properly stored (away from dry air, heat, and shock). However, despite this relative robustness, Australian opal remains a delicate stone that should be cared for to prolong its shine and prevent it from cracking.

1. Protection and individual storage

• Avoid shocks and friction
  Always remove your Australian opal jewelry before any risky activity (gardening, DIY, sports, washing dishes) and before handling chemicals (household cleaning, perfumes, concentrated cosmetics). Even small particles of dirt can create micro-scratches on the delicate surface of Australian opal.

• Separate and cushioned storage
  Store each Australian opal or set jewelry in a pouch or box lined with foam or soft fabric. These materials protect the stone without exerting pressure. Avoid any abrasive or gritty materials.

2. Cleaning Australian opals (if necessary)

• Light cleaning: with a soft dry or slightly damp cloth
   Place the stone on a stable, protected work surface (mat, tray) to prevent the Australian opal from slipping or falling. Gently wipe the stone with a soft, dry or slightly damp cloth to remove dust and surface marks without immersing it.

• Thorough cleaning
  Place the item on a stable and protected work surface (mat, tray) to prevent the Australian opal from slipping or falling. Briefly soak the Australian opal (1–2 minutes) in warm, slightly soapy water (mild soap, neutral pH). Gently scrub with a non-abrasive cloth or a very soft bristle brush, then rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth. Avoid knocking the sink and also preventing the opal from going down the drain by using a colander for rinsing and/or lining the sink with a cloth.

• Products to avoid
  Never use strong stain removers, bleach, harsh solvents, or ultrasonic or steam cleaners—these processes could compromise the internal structure of Australian opal.

3. Avoid extreme temperatures and very dry environments
Australian opal naturally contains 5–10% water: it does not tolerate excessively dry atmospheres and sudden temperature changes. Avoid exposing it to excessive heat (sauna, oven) or extremely dry air (inside a safe, air-conditioned rooms with low humidity).

4. Long-term storage of Australian opals (e.g. bank vault)
For extended storage (several weeks or months)—especially in a bank vault or a location with very low humidity—place your Australian opal in a small, airtight container. Place it on a bed of lightly dampened cotton (a few drops of water are sufficient) or wrap it in a damp cloth before sealing it tightly. This precaution creates a humid atmosphere that prevents the stone from drying out.