Ethiopian opal has two distinct types.

Jewelry Grade Opals -These type of Ethiopian opals are hydrophane opals, meaning they can absorb moisture due to their natural porous structure. This is a normal characteristic of the gemstone and not a defect. If jewelry grade opal absorbs water or other liquids, its appearance may temporarily change, becoming more transparent or showing reduced play of color. Once completely dry, it typically returns to its original appearance.

Water Opals - These rare Ethiopian opals are a type of hydrophane opal that naturally hold water within their porous structure, giving them their unique transparency and beauty. Water opals must remain submerged in clean water at all times, even when displayed. If allowed to dry out, they may lose their appearance and can become permanently damaged. This is a natural characteristic of the gemstone and not a defect.

1. Jewelry grade opals

To help protect your stone:

• Handle your opal with clean, dry hands.
• Avoid dropping or striking the stone against hard surfaces.
• Keep it away from sharp objects and harder gemstones that may scratch or chip it.
• Avoid exposing the stone to unnecessary pressure.

2. Specimen grade/water opals

To help protect your water opal specimen:

• Keep your opal fully submerged in clean water at all times, including when displayed.
• Use clean, room-temperature water and replace it regularly.
• Handle gently with clean hands to avoid transferring oils or debris.
• Avoid sudden temperature changes, direct sunlight, and heat exposure.
• Avoid dropping or placing pressure on the specimen, as natural opals can be delicate.

Jewelry grade opals

• Avoid soaking the stone in water.
• Keep it away from oils, lotions, perfumes, and household chemicals.
• If the stone becomes wet, allow it to dry naturally at room temperature.
• Do not use heat, hair dryers, ovens, or direct sunlight to speed up the drying process.

Temporary changes caused by moisture are a natural property of hydrophane opals and usually reverse once the stone has fully dried.

Specimen grade water opals

Water opals love water and are meant to be kept hydrated. Their natural beauty is preserved when they remain submerged, making water part of their unique care and display experience.

Jewelry grade opals

• Clean your opal only when necessary.
• Wipe gently with a soft microfiber or lint-free cloth.
• Never use ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners, abrasive cleaners, or harsh chemicals.

Specimen grade water opals

Keep the water fresh by replacing it every few days to maintain clarity and allow the full beauty of the specimen to shine. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or any cleaning methods that may damage the opal.

Store your jewelry grade opal individually in a soft pouch, gem box, or padded container.

Avoid storing it loose with diamonds, sapphires, or other harder gemstones that may scratch its surface.

Avoid exposing your opal to:

• Extreme heat
• Rapid temperature changes
• Prolonged direct sunlight
• Freezing conditions

Stable room-temperature storage is ideal.