How To Tell If an Opal Is Real

Opals are full of mystery. Their color play shimmers like magic, making them one of the most mesmerizing gemstones out there. But with beauty that captivating, it’s no surprise that fake opals try to sneak their way into the spotlight. So — how can you tell if your opal is the real thing?

Let’s break it down with some gem-savvy know-how, Worthmore style.

Why It Matters

Whether you found an opal ring tucked away in a jewelry box or you're eyeing a new piece, knowing if it’s natural is more than curiosity — it’s about value, durability, and pride in what you wear. Natural  opals are treasures. Fakes? Not so much.

Look for the Play-of-Color

That mesmerizing rainbow-like flash you see when an opal catches the light? It’s called play-of-color, and it’s one of the most telltale signs your opal is natural.

Real opals:

• Show shifting colors from different angles

• Tend to have irregular, organic color patterns

• Often feature soft, glowing color transitions

Fake or synthetic opals:

• Might look too perfect — think neat rows or “snakeskin” patterns

• Sometimes flash only one or two colors

• May appear flat or too glassy

Tip: If the colors are loud, uniform, and too predictable — it could be manmade.

Check the Back of the Stone

Flip the opal over. A solid opal will usually have a natural, uneven backing in a similar tone to the top — cream, black, or gray. If it looks jet black and glossy or has a perfectly flat plastic-looking layer? It’s probably a doublet or triplet, which means it’s layered or enhanced.

• Solid opal: One continuous piece

• Doublet: Thin layer of opal on dark backing

• Triplet: Opal layer with a top coat (often quartz or glass) for shine

While doublets and triplets are still technically opal, they're not as rare as natural ones.

Feel the Temperature

Real opals tend to feel cooler to the touch than plastic or resin-based imitations.

• Real opal: Slightly cool, smooth

• Fake opal: Warm, sometimes waxy or overly glossy

It’s a subtle detail, but one collectors and gem pros notice.

Use a Loupe or Magnifier

Got a jeweler’s loupe? Take a closer look:

• Real opals often show tiny imperfections or slight inconsistencies

• Lab-created ones are typically flawless — almost too perfect

Also, look for layering, bubbling, or glue lines under magnification — giveaways of a manmade stone.

When in Doubt, Ask a Trusted Jeweler

Nothing beats a gemological evaluation from people who live and breathe jewelry. At Worthmore Jewelers, we’re proud members of the American Gem Society, which means our gemologists know the real thing when they see it.

Bring your opal in, and we’ll inspect it — no pressure, just honest, expert insight.

Opal FAQs (And Expert Answers)

Can opals be lab-created?

Yes — synthetic opals are made in labs and may have similar color play, but lack the uniqueness and natural structure of real ones.

Are doublets and triplets considered fake?

Not fake, but not solid natural opals either. They're assembled to enhance color affordably — good for fashion..

What’s the rarest type of opal?

Black opals, especially those from Lightning Ridge, Australia, are among the rarest and most valuable.

A Few Final Thoughts

Opals are unique — no two are alike. That’s part of what makes them so special (and why you’ll never see the same one twice in our showcases!). Whether you’re shopping for a new piece or want to learn more about a gem you already own, we’re here to help you navigate the beauty and brilliance of authentic opals.

Visit Us to Discover Authentic Opals Worth Showing Off

Ready to find your perfect opal or verify a gem you already love? Stop by Worthmore Jewelers in Midtown Atlanta or Downtown Decatur. Our team will walk you through it with passion, transparency, and a whole lot of sparkle.

Make an appointment or just stop in — we’d love to help you uncover the real beauty behind your stone.