Lab Created Gilson Opal

Lab Created Galaxy Opal

Lab-made galaxy opals are gemstones made from hydrated borosilicate and is available in different colors. These synthetic gems have similar physical properties, internal structure, appearance, and chemical composition as earth-mined opals.

However, their signature starry pattern makes them a favored option for jewelers, designers, and buyers keen to improve their decorative detail.

Lab-made galaxy opals may be stronger than natural gems and could possess better hardness or refractive index. These stones usually have other characteristics that may be unavailable or inferior on natural opals.

Many jewelers and buyers prefer lab-created opals, as they are easier to produce, available in many colors, and cheaper.

History of Lab Created Galaxy Opal

Scientists used an electron microscope to discover lab created opals in the 1960s. The color-of-play potential of these gems were possible to identify and improve through this discovery, creating an avenue to mass-produce these gemstones.

However, lab-made galaxy opals are recent and feature some components unavailable in regular gemstones.

How are Lab Created Galaxy Opals Made?

Lab-made galaxy opals form after precipitating colored silica, allowing it to settle and align, and then fill them with a binder. The binder hardens and forms a structure that can diffract light. Companies produce galaxy opals to be much harder than natural or other synthetic variants. The galaxy pattern might come from the resin or how the uniform silica are shaped.

Lab created galaxy opals are hard to produce and may take several months to form properly.

Uses of Lab Created Galaxy Opal

Adornments

Lab-made galaxy opals are useful as adornments on jewelry. Some jewelers also fit opal stones on metals for extra decorative effect and an improved, beautiful appearance. Lab-made opals can also feature on sandals and other footwear as centerpiece gems. They can also come with clothing to increase their overall appeal.

Opals also come in handy for much more than adornments on jewelry, footwear, and clothing.

Craftspeople can place galaxy opal stones on several objects since the gems are easy to shape into different sizes. Designers use opals as detailing on several objects to improve their overall appearance and appeal.

Exhibition gemstones

Fine galaxy opal gemstones usually feature at art exhibitions. The beautiful appearance and decorative detail of these stones make them a favored option on many glass-based works of art. The low price of lab-made galaxy opals and its impressive color range also make them preferable to create different art forms for exhibitions.

Wall décor

Fancy opal slabs can be useful as wall tiling and is a preferred material for several high-quality décor brands. Designers can work these stones into a pattern or place it directly on walls for a greater decorative effect on interior or outer walls.

Chemical Properties of Lab Created Galaxy Opal

• Composition: 85-80% SiO2 + 15-20% Resin
• Density: 1.90 – 2.2 g/cm3
• Fracture: Irregular, fine pattern with multidirectional swirling
• Hardness (Mohs’ Scale): 5.5 – 6
• Heat Resistance: 900°C
• Porosity: None
• Refractive Index: 1.49 – 1.50
• Specific Gravity: 1.3 – 2.05 g/cm3

Maintenance Tips for Lab Created Galaxy Opal

You can maintain your lab-created galaxy opals by:

• Cleaning the gemstones with a baking soda and white vinegar mix
• Rubbing its surface with a dry, soft cotton cloth to retain its shine
• Storing the crystals in an airtight, cushioned container
• Wiping it with a soft, damp cotton cloth and allow it to air dry

Avoid using harsh chemicals on your lab-made galaxy opals. Some elements in jewelry cleaners might weaken the polymer resin used to hold lab-made galaxy opals together.