What's the average time to see the full beauty of an opal under different lights?

opal gemstone play-of-color
Asked on: 7/26/2025
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You can observe the full beauty of an opal under different lights almost instantly, as its play-of-color changes with lighting angles.
Estimated Duration: 5 seconds
Opals display their mesmerizing play-of-color immediately when exposed to light, with shifts in hue and brilliance visible as you rotate the stone or change the lighting. To appreciate an opal's full spectrum, examine it under natural daylight, LED, and incandescent light while tilting it at various angles. High-quality opals reveal vibrant flashes within seconds, though prolonged observation may uncover subtle color variations. The process requires no waiting time—just proper lighting conditions and movement to activate the stone's optical properties. For best results, view the opal against a neutral background in diffused light to minimize reflections and enhance color visibility.
What's the average time to see the full beauty of an opal under different lights? | How Long Does It?