The Durability & Toughness of Opals

Opals are unique when it comes to their durability and toughness which is a concern for many people in the opal world. Here's what you should know when it comes to the toughness and durability of an opal:

 

Durability

An opals durability are fairly poor to fair, as they are a softer gemstone with a hardness rating of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. This means that they are more vulnerable to imperfections along with scratches and abrasions that can occur if opal holders aren’t careful. However, if treated with care, opals are still durable enough for everyday use with caution. It is important to avoid exposing opals to extreme heat, chemicals, or sudden changes in temperature, as these can cause damage to the stone and weaken its durability making it prone to cracks, scratches, etc.

 

Toughness

Opals are relatively tough, meaning that they are quite resistant to chipping and breaking during regular everyday use. This is due to the fact that opals are composed of small spheres of silica that are tightly packed together. Keep in mind that opals can still be vulnerable to damage if they are exposed to physical impacts such as hitting the stone or dropping it. It is also important to note that some types of opals, such as Mexican fire opals, have a more fragile structure than other opals and require specific care when handling.

 

Opals have a medium durability and toughness to them that are able to withstand everyday wear if they are treated with care. It is vital to avoid exposing opals to extreme heat, chemicals, or sudden changes in temperature, as that can permanently damage the crystal. It is important to store opals in a soft area and to handle them with care so you can enjoy your opal throughout your years to come.