Opal Engagement Rings: The Meaning, Symbolism, and Care Guide

Posted by My Store Admin on December 02, 2025
Opal Engagement Rings

When geologists first discovered opal in Australia back in the mid-1800s, it is highly unlikely that they foresaw the prominence of this beautiful gemstone in the modern jewellery industry. Few gemstones capture your attention as flawlessly as opal will, and the rise in the use of opal adornments, like an opal engagement ring, in the UK is just a testament to that fact. The kaleidoscope of colours form a magical array of green, blue, orange, red and white, a unique choice for an engagement ring that would undoubtedly stand out as a unique expression of the love and commitment that you have for your partner.

If you're looking to learn more about opal engagement rings, you're in the right place. This article explores the meaning, symbolism and allure behind these vibrant gemstones and we've added a bonus section for caring and maintaining your opal engagement ring if you own one or always wanted to.

Opal Engagement Rings In The Modern World 

Opal gemstones have been a prominent asset in the jewellery industry in the UK for a long time, even dating back centuries. Back then, it was just another beautiful gemstone that had an alluring match of colours that made it come alive. Today, like all jewellery accessories, opal adornments also come in a wide variety of styles, designs and sizes. Here are a few noteworthy designs that are famous for an opal engagement ring:

  1. The classic solitaire is arguably the most famous, and as you can see, it is not just for the diamond engagement rings. Like all the other accessories, the classic solitaire brings an opal engagement ring directly into the spotlight, and the timeless design will allow it to shine without any impediments. 

  1. The Halo is the next popular setting for opal rings in the UK's jewellery industry, creating a unique frame around the gemstone, adding to the glamorous look without being overly dramatic. It goes without saying that the iridescence of the opal and the subtle brilliance of the diamonds make up for a truly mesmerising play of light and colour.

  1. Opal accessories are also being used as a callback to the UK's vintage-era, with intricate detailing like the milgrain or the filigree a common design aspect in all the vintage-inspired styles. The opal is a perfect addition if you want a ring that matches the aesthetics of the vintage or even the Art Deco era.

  1. If you prefer a more contemporary aesthetic, then the opal rings excel in that as well. Modern minimalistic designs pair well with an opal gemstone, allowing you to craft that sleek design with a cleaner gemstone. And if minimalism is not your thing, then the opal is a perfect piece for making a grander statement too with its ability to outshine in stackable rings or even in elaborate ring settings.

Understanding The Meaning and Symbolism of opal

Opals are one of those gemstones that have been prodigiously used in myths and legends worldwide. The Australian aboriginal myths, for example, state that the opal had a unique energy and that the rainbow colours were formed because the Creator took a liking to the stone and bestowed all the seven colours of the rainbow into one. In Greek Mythology, opals were formed from the tears of Zeus after he defeated the titans.

Despite their brief dip in reputation in the 18th and 19th centuries, opals still enjoy an unrivalled prestige for being associated with creativity, emotional expression, purity, hope and even truth, some of these attributes making them a prized possession during the Roman rule. 

But today? Opal accessories like an opal engagement ring is associated with love or passion, their splash of ever-changing colours tied to the emotional complexity and depth of our feelings. It is indeed a powerful symbol for a relationship, and being the birthstone for October, they are certainly a highly sought-after gemstone in the UK.

Here is a list of the key symbols for opal that you may not be aware of:

  1. Opals, especially the white ones in the UK, stand as a symbol of hope, their shimmer representing purity in love and relationships. 

  1. The bright kaleidoscope of colours are believed to inspire ideas and creativity, making an opal engagement ring a great choice for artists or anyone working in the creative fields.

  1. Many older cultures believe that the opal stone can ward off bad energies and instead, acts as a lucky charm bringing safety and prosperity to the wearer.

  1. Fire opals, commonly known as the Mexican fire opal, represent emotions and passion, as bright and fiery as the stone that represents them.

Choosing An Opal Engagement Ring: The Various Advantages Of This Unique Gemstone 

Is an opal engagement ring good for you? Opal gemstones have distinct advantages that make them a fine choice if you want a unique accessory that is not entirely dependent on diamonds.

  1. The most unique aspect, and one of its prominent advantage, of an opal ring is the appearance. The iridescent hues make up the unique beauty of an opal ring that is unparalleled in the jewellery industry. Even two opal stones are never alike. 

  1. Opals are one of the most affordable options for a stone if your budget is tight for a diamond. You can spend less and get a beautiful stone that is rich in symbolism.

  1. Opal can be a highly personal gemstone, especially for those born in October. It makes a memorable gift and the gesture itself can be enriching for a relationship.

  2. It is also a sustainable choice for those that prefer to step away from tradition and instead, want to embrace the early Vintage and Art Deco styles.

Find Out: Trendy Engagement Ring Styles That Are Popular Right Now

Caring For Your Opal Engagement Ring 

So, now you've got an opal engagement ring for your partner but you are in a dilemma. Opals are softer gemstones so how do you actually care for an opal ring? No worries! Just follow our guidelines here and you'll be good to go!

  1. First things first, avoid all harsh chemicals and abrasive surfaces, basically anything that can easily scratch or damage your opal stone. Remove your ring before engaging in strenuous physical activities like sports or gardening.  

  1. To clean your opal ring, a soft, damp cloth should do the trick. Of course, avoid the use of strong cleaning agents and chemicals and make sure to use a mild soap if the stone appears dirty. Remember, the cleaning should be regular as well as gentle, and your stone will retain its brilliance for a long time.

  1. Finally, we have the storage. Keep your opal ring safe from the other jewellery accessories by keeping it in a separate pouch or a box. Since opal stones have lesser durability, you need to be extra careful in keeping it away from sturdier stones.

Conclusion 

An opal engagement ring is a stunning choice if you are looking to gift one to your partner. In the UK, you'll find plenty of opportunities for customisation and design, allowing you to create an opal ring according to your tastes and preferences, whether that's in the minimalistic style or in the vintage-inspired look.

Ready to find the right opal stone that matches perfectly with what you had in mind? Give us a call at Eternity Jewels and we are more than happy to help you get sorted out!

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