Clear Opal

[ImLostAgain]

I have come into possession of a deceased relatives signet ring. It is gold with a clear opal stone. I remember it from when I was young and the opal gleamed. Not anymore. It's dull, very dull. 

I'd like to get it back to looking like new, or as close as possible but I don't want to damage it.

Is it needing a trip to the jewellers or is there a simple way of doing it myself?

[Buenchico]

Quote:
"The safest way to clean opals is using warm, soapy water, gently removing any clouding or deposits with soft tools like a baby’s toothbrush or very soft microfibre cloth to avoid scratching the surface. Do not soak or submerge your opal jewellery in water. Rather, rinse it briefly under a running tap and make sure to dry your opal thoroughly with a soft, dry cloth immediately after cleaning. We recommend limiting cleaning your opal to 3-4 times a year."

Source:
https://uk.chupi.com/blogs/education/how-to-care-for-your-opal-ring-chupi-journal

[ImLostAgain]

Thanks for that Buenchico. 

I've got a horrible feeling its been submerged in water many times, maybe even scrubbed! I hope not.

I'll try your suggestions.

 

[ladybirder]

I've got one and I'd love to know how you get on with it please ILA.

[ImLostAgain]

Will do.

[Hopkirk]

Make up a sob story and take it on The Repair Shop

[ImLostAgain]

Success of sorts. 

I put a tiny drop of soft soap on the underside of the opal and held it under a not too warm stream of tap water. I then gently rubbed it in with my fingers. I then used a baby cotton bud to give it a light wipe. Finally I dried it off with a soft microfibre cloth. 

It looks miles better than it did. The opal has a flat surface on the top and now it's clean there are a couple of little scratches visible.

All in all I'm pretty happy with the outcome'

Thanks all.

[Hopkirk]

Stick it in the dishwasher 

[clyde59]

🤣to hopkirk