Why are opals so expensive?!

Determining the cost of my crafted pieces, especially those adorned with gemstones, is a nuanced task...

And it's not as straightforward as providing a quick figure, unfortunately.

The truth is, the price of my crafted pieces hinges on numerous factors, including but not limited to:

Materials - The leap from 'affordable' to $$$$ happens swiftly, given the significantly higher material cost of solid gold compared to silver. Yet, a silver ring might surprisingly be priced higher than its solid gold counterpart.

Opals

Gemstones  - This is where it gets tricky. Opals, my beloved gemstones, exhibit a vast range of values—from a meal to a car, no less. Why can two opals of the same size differ in price?

Carat Weight - Opals are valued 'per carat.' For instance, an Opal could cost $50, $100, or even $1000 for every 1 carat. The more carats, the higher the price, but this hinges on color quality and the factors below.

Brightness -  Radiant opals with vibrant hues naturally command a higher price than their dull counterparts. Yet, size isn't everything—a small but brilliant stone might be priced less than a large, duller opal, and vice versa.

Body Tone - Dark-toned opals, like those from Lighting Ridge, Australia, can be valued higher due to their rarity. The black tone enhances the opal colors, adding to their allure.

Inclusions -  Is the stone flawless, or does it bear small inclusions?

And let's not forget about other gems:

𝐒𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐡𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐬

The hue, clarity, and carat weight all play a role in their pricing. Vivid colors and larger sizes often come with a higher price tag. Additionally, whether a sapphire is natural and untreated or lab-grown contributes to its cost. It's essential to note that while lab-grown sapphires may offer a more budget-friendly option initially, they may lose value over time and resell for less.

𝐃𝐢𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐬 (Lab vs Natural)

Lab diamonds can be more budget-friendly, offering a sustainable choice without compromising brilliance. However, it's crucial to be aware that lab-grown diamonds may lose their value over time and might not hold the same resale value as natural diamonds.

 𝐏𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐬

The size, luster, surface quality, and type of pearl all contribute to their pricing. Larger, perfectly round pearls with high luster are generally more valuable.

As you can see, the pricing of my crafted pieces is a multifaceted journey, influenced by various factors across different gemstones. That's why I cherish it when my customers share their preferences, including their choice of metal, design, gemstone type, or a budget—allowing me to suggest the perfect gemstones that align with their vision.