The value of opal can vary significantly, ranging from as little as $10 per carat to as much as $10,000 per carat, depending primarily on its type, rarity, and quality.
Opal's price is influenced by several factors, including its body tone, play-of-color, brightness, pattern, and origin. Different types of opal command different price points in the market.
Opal Value by Type
Understanding the specific type of opal is crucial when determining its potential value. Here's a breakdown of the typical price ranges for various opal types:
- Black Opal: Considered the most valuable and sought-after variety, black opal is distinguished by its dark body tone, which allows its vibrant play-of-color to stand out dramatically.
- White Opal: This type features a light body tone, ranging from white to light gray. It is more common than black opal and generally less valuable.
- Other Opal Types: This category includes a diverse range of opals such as fire opal (known for its body color, often orange or red, rather than play-of-color), red opal, and blue opal. Their value falls between the extremes of black and white opal.
To provide a clearer picture, here's a table summarizing the general price ranges per carat for different opal types:
| Opal Type | Typical Price Range (Per Carat) | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Black Opal | $50 – $10,000 | Most valuable; dark body tone accentuates color play. |
| White Opal | $10 – $150 | Common; light body tone. |
| Other Opals | $10 – $500 | Includes Fire, Red, Blue opals; varied body colors. |
It's important to note that these figures represent a broad spectrum. Exceptional specimens within any category, especially those with an intense play-of-color, unique patterns, and high clarity, will command prices at the higher end of their respective ranges. Conversely, opals with less vivid color, fewer flashes, or visible inclusions will be priced lower.
