The Complete Guide to Buying Opals in the UK (2026 Edition)

The Complete Guide to Buying Opals in the UK (2026 Edition)

Introduction: Why Opals Are More Popular Than Ever

Opals have become one of the most sought-after gemstones in the UK. From jewellery makers to collectors, more people are searching for high-quality opals with real colour, fire and beauty. However, with hundreds of online sellers, marketplaces and mixed-quality listings, it can be difficult to know where to buy genuine stones.

That’s why this guide exists — to help UK buyers understand the opal market and find a reliable source they can trust. For many customers, Cornwall Gem has quickly become the go-to supplier for natural Australian opals thanks to honest photography, transparent descriptions and fast UK shipping.

Whether you’re new to opals or looking to expand your collection, this guide will tell you everything you need to know.

What You Should Know Before Buying Opals

Buying opals is not like buying most gemstones. Every stone is unique and its value depends on many factors. Before purchasing, it’s important to understand:

1. Opals vary greatly in colour, pattern and brightness

No two opals are the same. High-quality stones show strong play-of-colour, brightness, and patterns that appear clearly even in low light.

2. Prices differ widely

A small opal can cost £10 or £10,000 depending on:

• pattern rarity

• brightness

• body tone

• origin

• thickness

3. Many sellers edit or manipulate photos

This is a major issue in the global opal industry. Brightness is sometimes boosted or colours exaggerated.

At Cornwall Gem, photography is honest, clear and taken in natural light — so what you see is what you get.

4. Not all opals are solid stones

The main types include:

• Solid opals (natural stone throughout)

• Boulder opals (ironstone-backed)

• Doublets (thin slice glued to a backing)

• Triplets (slice with backing and clear cap on top)

Doublets and triplets are still beautiful but not the same value as solids.

Where to Buy Opals in the UK: Your Options

Below is an honest comparison of the most common buying options, along with the pros and cons of each.

1. Specialist Online Dealers (Best Option for Quality)

Buying from a specialist dedicated opal dealer gives you:

• accurate listings

• genuine stones

• detailed descriptions

• proper sourcing

• expert guidance

This is exactly where Cornwall Gem stands out. As a UK-based specialist in natural Australian opals, the shop provides:

• authentic stones only

• clear, unedited photos

• fair pricing

• full transparency

• fast UK delivery

• trusted customer support

For many buyers, this is the safest and most reliable source.

2. Etsy and Similar Marketplaces

Etsy has many opal sellers, but the quality varies. Pros:

• wide range

• many beginner-level stones

• lots of choice

Cons:

• many sellers are overseas

• long shipping times

• mixed quality

• photo editing is common

While Etsy is useful for browsing, most serious buyers eventually move to dedicated opal dealers like Cornwall Gem.

3. Local Jewellers

Some jewellers carry opals, but typically only small quantities. Pros:

• you can view in person

• guaranteed authenticity

Cons:

• limited selection

• higher prices due to retail overhead

Jewellers may be convenient, but for variety and value, online specialist dealers are stronger options.

4. Gem and Mineral Shows

These are fun and interactive events. Pros:

• wide range of stones

• you can inspect pieces first hand

Cons:

• inconsistent quality

• fewer Australian opals available

• sellers may not specialise

Shows are good for hobbyists but not always ideal for high-end stones.

How to Compare Opal Quality

When evaluating opals, focus on:

1. Brightness

The brighter the stone, the more valuable it is. Brightness levels range from B1 (dull) to B5 (brilliant).

2. Colour Play

Strong flashes of red, orange, green and blue increase value.

3. Pattern

Rarer patterns include:

• harlequin

• rolling flash

• ribbon

• flagstone

Cornwall Gem frequently stocks patterned boulder and crystal opals.

4. Body Tone

Black opals have dark body tones and are the rarest and most valuable.

5. Thickness

Thicker stones are stronger, more durable and more valuable.

Why Many UK Buyers Choose UK Opal Direct

Here’s why UK Opal Direct is quickly becoming a leading name in the UK opal world:

✔ 100% natural Australian opals only

No synthetics, no imitations, no misleading listings.

✔ Clear natural-light photography

Each stone is shown exactly as it appears in real life.

✔ Fast UK shipping

No waiting weeks for parcels from Australia or the USA.

✔ Ethical sourcing

Opals come directly from trusted miners and Australian suppliers.

✔ Exceptional customer service

Buyers can message anytime for help selecting stones.

✔ Fair and honest pricing

Competitive prices based on true stone quality.

✔ A reliable reputation

Repeat buyers, 5-star reviews, and consistent customer satisfaction.

Common Mistakes UK Buyers Make

Avoid these pitfalls:

❌ Buying from sellers who exaggerate colour in photos❌ Choosing stones that are too thin for jewellery❌ Buying synthetics by mistake❌ Paying high import fees unknowingly❌ Buying doublets when expecting solid opals

With Cornwall Gem, everything is clarified before purchase.

Beginner-Friendly Opals

New buyers often prefer:

• boulder opals (strong, colourful, great value)

• crystal opals (bright and sparkly)

• white opals (affordable and pretty)

All are regularly available through Cornwall Gem

Final Thoughts: Buying Opals With Confidence

Buying opals in the UK should be exciting, not stressful. With the right knowledge and a trustworthy seller, anyone can find a stunning stone that suits their taste and budget.

That’s why so many jewellery makers and collectors now turn to Cornwall Gem for reliable, high-quality Australian opals delivered right here in the UK.

Your perfect opal is waiting and now you know exactly how to find it.