How to identify an opal triplet

Opal triplets have fooled many people. They think they are buying a solid opal, but the gem or jewelry piece is only a slice of opal that is enhanced.

Don’t get me wrong; triplets have their place and are considered an opal. If all you can afford is a triplet, go for it, but, if you are thinking you are buying a solid at an unbelievable price, you need to look closer.

What is an opal triplet?

An opal triplet is a slice of opal that is enhanced by darkening the body tone and magnifying the slice of colour with a domed quartz or glass top. If the seller still calls it opal, they are technically correct but in my opinion, this is fraudulent as they should identify it is enhanced. However, most reputable places will identify it as being enhanced. 

From the first glance at the image above, you would not see or tell which one is natural and a triplet. However, here are a few tricks or features to look out for.

How to tell if it's an opal triplet?

1. Obvious glue line where the potch meets the color. Look along the side or edge of the opal with a loupe or magnifying glass and see if you can see a line that looks like blackened glue that has bonded two different materials together.
2. The opal top looks glassy, and the colour doesn’t travel all the way up. This could mean a clear dome has been attached on top to make it look better than it is.
3. Notice that there is a very thin layer of color, which is the only precious opal on the gemstone.

Solid Opal vs Triplet Opal

A solid black opal can produce a potch line, much like a triplet can display, however, a triplet opals line is quite uniform. A natural black opal has black potch (common opal) on the back of the stone formed naturally to enhance the opal color and give it true black opal brilliance. A triplet will have a glue line between the potch and the color. 

And the answer is…

To be able to identify a triplet, make sure you look at all sides of the stone to be sure of what you are purchasing. Ask for photos and images when purchasing a 'solid opal' when the price looks too good to be true.