As with all stone jewelry Ethiopian Opals deserve the care they require. Here are some tips for your Ethiopian Opals:
Keep Your Opals Away From Water
Ethiopian Opals are "hydrophane", which means they absorb water. When water is absorbed their appearance changes. If the Opals are submerged in water they may lose their fire temporarily and turn yellow or brown. The fire and color should come back once the opals have fully dried. This can take a day or up to a few weeks.
Avoid Liquid Chemicals Around Your Ethiopian Opals
Due to the opal's hydrophane nature, liquids like perfumes, soaps and cleaning products can stain your opals and change their color. If this occurs, try wiping them with a soft, damp cloth before allowing them to dry.
Protect Opals From Extreme Changes in Temperature
Ethiopian opals do not like extreme temperature changes. When drying an opal that has managed to soak up water let it dry naturally. Do not try to speed up the process with a hair dryer or other heat source.
Avoid Strenuous Activity while Wearing Ethiopian Opals
When wearing opal jewelry remember that it is actually a relatively soft gemstone. Opals measure 5.5 to 6.5 on Moh's scale of hardness (like turquoise). This means that it is best to take off your opal jewelry when engaged in any sort of strenuous activity or sport. Any hard knocks can cause the Opal to crack or be scratched.
How To Clean Ethiopian Opals
After every wear, use a clean, soft, dry microfiber cloth to gently buff away residue and oils. Never use a steamer or ultrasonic cleaner as the Opal is too fragile and may crack as well as absorb the water and chemicals.
How To Store Your Ethiopian Opals
Keep your Opal jewelry separate from other pieces to minimize accidental contact or scratches to the stones. Store your Opal jewelry in its jewelry box, away from moisture, humidity, and direct sunlight.
