To be fair, I like opals, but I don't "like like" opals. As I've traveled, I've learned to buy 1-2 high quality pieces rather than a bunch of kitsch, so I decided to buy an opal in Australia. Why not?
The associate who assisted me was helpful in explaining the differences between doublets, triplets and solid opals as well as the different colors of opals (and what makes a good stone).
The pieces had quite a price range and a bit of a style range, but many of the pieces had an elaborate "contemporary" flavor that isn't quite my style. A high end piece will run you several thousand dollars, and a triplet, less quality piece like the one I ended up with will cost a few hundred.
I didn't shop around as I found a piece that fit the bill at Opal Fields, so I can't compare to what else is out there. read more