Synthetic Opal
Synthetic opals are man-made stones, created with the same internal composition, structure, and properties as natural opals. However, with the creation of these ‘lab-cheated’ gemstones, comes the rising need for cheap and quick jewellery; man-made synthetic opals can fulfil this need. This, overall, has led to not a misinformed price and quality that has now become commonplace for cheaper alternatives but has also aided in the perpetuation of distrust between jewellers, and those wishing to buy genuine opal.

Created in Switzerland, Gilson opal is now primarily synthesised in Japan. This type of Opal has been around since 1974. It is created using Silica so it is a true synthetic version of natural Opal. ‘Gilson opal’ as a term is often used in reference to imitation opals, which are gems that are not only man-made but contain minerals and materials that cannot be found in natural opals.

How to Identify Fake Opal
If you do not have prior knowledge of opal types, it can be hard to discern if what you are buying is really ‘genuine’. Many stores internationally sell opal, and at a heavily discounted price, with many shoppers not thinking of the authenticity of the gem, and trusting that it is ‘genuine’. However, this blind trust can no longer be used, as the accessibility of synthetic opals (and their ability to mimic the look of natural opal) has grown, and so has their presence within the online jewellery market. Many online sellers use dishonest marketing techniques and can be sold under so many different names that may not explicitly indicate that they are man-made creations.

Currently, there are not many ways commonly available that can be used to determine if an opal is natural. Look for what gemologists call a ‘Columnar’ structure or ‘snakeskin’ pattern. Turn the Opal on its side and look for straight columns of colour running vertically. This is the sign of a fake Opal. Under high magnification (around sixty) it’s clear to tell if the opal you own is synthetic, as the regularity and columnar nature of the opal is visible. Synthetic opals, in addition to their visual clues, will emit a green colour under UV light; it is often advised to take a UV torch along to test if the stone ‘fluoresces’, and if not, it is natural.

By educating yourself before purchasing opal, this ‘duping’ can be avoided.

Why This Is Such a Big Deal
The distinction between synthetic and genuine opals is significant for several reasons, affecting not only consumers but also the broader gemstone market. First and foremost, the value associated with natural opals is rooted in their rarity and unique formation, which means that genuine opals can command high prices. When consumers unknowingly purchase synthetic or imitation opals at inflated prices, they may feel deceived once they realize the true nature of their purchase. This situation erodes trust between buyers and sellers, making it crucial for consumers to be informed.

Furthermore, the rise of synthetic opals has implications for the livelihoods of those in the gemstone industry. Jewellers who specialize in natural gemstones may suffer as synthetic options saturate the market at lower prices. This can create an unlevel playing field, where quality gemstones compete against lower-cost alternatives that may not offer the same beauty or durability.

Additionally, the environmental aspect can't be overlooked. The mining of natural opals, while often harmful to ecosystems, pales in comparison to the energy-intensive processes required to create synthetic stones. As awareness of environmental issues grows, the choice between natural and synthetic gemstones takes on a larger ethical dimension.

In summary, understanding the differences between synthetic and natural opals not only protects consumers from financial pitfalls but also impacts the market dynamics and ethical considerations surrounding gemstone production. By making informed choices, buyers can support the value of natural stones and the artisans who craft them, preserving the artistry and integrity of genuine opals.



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