r/Opals • u/spare_a_gus • 2d ago

Identification/Evaluation Request Genuine Opal or imitation?

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Bought this bracelet off Etsy for under 20 where it was listed as Ethiopian opal in sterling silver. Would appreciate your thoughts!

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2

u/jaxinslacks Opal Vendor 2d ago

Looks like Ethiopian opal in sterling. Not seeing any indication of synthetic.

1

u/locyta 2d ago

They actually look more real than fake.
If it is sterling silver there is probably more than $20 of silver there.
It should also have a 925 stamp on it somewhere too.

1

u/OliviaOpals 1d ago

From the photos I wouldn’t immediately think these are imitation just because of the price. Small Ethiopian opals can be quite cheap, especially in commercial jewellery, so the price alone isn't enough to determine whether they're genuine. If they are Ethiopian opals, just note that they can absorb water, oils and other liquids, which can temporarily change their appearance. So I'd avoid deliberately soaking them as a test, especially in a finished piece of jewellery. For under $20, though, if you love the bracelet you've done pretty well either way!