Are Opal Wedding Rings Bad Luck?
Long before diamonds came to symbolize modern romance, another gemstone held the imagination of kings, writers, and mystics: opal. Flickering with flashes of rainbow fire, opals have been seen as both magical and mysterious. But somewhere along the way, a rumor took hold—a whisper that opal brings bad luck, especially in wedding rings.
At Espling Jewelers, we hear this question more often than you might expect:
“Are opal wedding rings really bad luck?”
Let us take you on a journey through the past, the lore, the present, and the very real beauty that makes opals one of the most intriguing choices for bridal jewelry today.
A Gemstone with a Storied Past
Opals have captivated hearts for centuries. Ancient Romans believed opals were a symbol of hope and purity. The Greeks thought they gave the gift of prophecy. In Arabic legend, opals were born from lightning, infused with fire from the skies.
For much of history, opals were prized above all other gems. Royals wore them as symbols of favor and fortune. In fact, during the Middle Ages, opals were considered to bring good luck—because they were thought to carry the virtues of every gem reflected in their shifting colors.
So where did the superstition begin?
In the 19th century, a novel titled Anne of Geierstein told a fictional story of an opal that brought misfortune to its wearer. Combined with the fact that opals are softer than many other gemstones, the myth of "bad luck" began to circulate. But it was never more than a story—and one that modern jewelers and gemologists now view as a tale, not a truth.
The Truth: Opals Are Not Unlucky
There’s no evidence—historical, cultural, or gemological—that opals bring bad luck. The superstition has no basis in fact, and today, more and more couples are turning to opals as a symbol of individuality, creativity, and emotional depth.
At Espling Jewelers, we’ve worked with clients who chose opals for reasons as personal as their love stories:
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A bride drawn to their dreamlike beauty
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A couple honoring a family heirloom
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An October-born partner choosing their birthstone for lasting connection
Far from being unlucky, opals are cherished for their symbolism, elegance, and meaning.
What Makes Opals So Special?
Unlike diamonds or sapphires, opals are known for their “play of color”—a shimmering, almost fluid spectrum that dances across the stone. No two opals are alike. Some flash with cool blues and greens; others flicker with warm fire-reds and golds.
Unique Characteristics:
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Completely one-of-a-kind: No two stones are identical
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Color range: White, black, crystal, boulder, and fire opals
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Soft iridescence or bold color play depending on the type
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Lightweight and ethereal, with an almost watercolor-like quality
Opals are more delicate than diamonds, with a Mohs hardness of 5.5 to 6.5. But that doesn’t make them unsuitable for wedding rings—it simply means they deserve thoughtful design and care.
Choosing the Right Setting for an Opal Ring
Because of their softness, opals benefit from protective settings. At Espling Jewelers, we guide clients toward secure, elegant styles that frame the gem while preserving its integrity.
Best setting styles for opals:
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Bezel settings that encircle the stone with precious metal
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Halo designs that cushion the opal with small diamonds
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Low-profile mountings that reduce contact and wear
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Doublet settings that pair opals with durable backing for extra strength
Whether you want something minimalist or ornate, we can design a setting that protects your opal—and lets it shine.
The Meaning of Opal in Wedding Jewelry
If you're considering an opal for your wedding ring, you’re choosing a stone rich in meaning. Historically and symbolically, opals are tied to:
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Loyalty and emotional connection
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Creativity and imagination
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Love that evolves and surprises
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Beauty that is truly personal
Opals are perfect for couples who value romance, symbolism, and individuality over convention.
Modern Possibilities: Designing with Opals Today
Today’s bridal jewelry reflects the diversity of modern love. Many couples choose opals because they want something:
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Non-traditional but timeless
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Connected to a birthstone or personal moment
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Full of artistic and emotional depth
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Perfect for stacking, matching, or layering with other pieces
At Espling Jewelers, we design rings that combine opals with:
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Diamond accents for contrast
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Yellow or rose gold for warmth
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Custom engraving for sentiment
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Vintage-inspired details for heirloom quality
Whether you're building a new custom ring or redesigning a family piece that holds sentimental value, opals give you the space to make the piece truly yours.
Let Us Create Something Truly Meaningful
Opals are more than a gemstone. They are living color, luminous beauty, and emotional expression captured in a single stone. If you've been hesitant because of an old superstition, let us assure you: opal wedding rings are not unlucky—they are unforgettable.
At Espling Jewelers, we bring generations of expertise, a love for craftsmanship, and a deep appreciation for the stories behind every ring. Our custom process ensures that your opal is beautifully set, thoughtfully protected, and uniquely designed to last for years to come.
Mandarin Location
9825 San Jose Blvd #40
Jacksonville, FL 32257
904-268-7975
Jacksonville Beach – New Location
3988 3rd Street South
904-280-7700