Australian Opal Triplets: A Jeweller's Guide to One of the World's Most Versatile Gemstones
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By Opal Essence | Australian Opals & Gemstones
Opal triplets are one of the most practical and beautiful gemstones a jeweller or maker can work with. They deliver the full spectral fire of genuine Australian opal in a durable, consistently sized, and surprisingly affordable format — making them a favourite among silversmiths, goldsmiths, wire wrappers, and production jewellers alike.
At Opal Essence, we've spent years curating an extensive collection of Australian opal triplets sourced directly from the opal fields of Mintabie (South Australia) and Coober Pedy. Here's everything you need to know about working with them.
What Is an Opal Triplet?
An opal triplet is a composite stone made of three layers:
- A thin slice of natural Australian opal — the middle layer, which provides the play-of-colour
- A dark backing (typically ironstone or black potch) — which enhances the colour and contrast of the opal
- A clear domed cap (usually crystal or glass) — which protects the opal and magnifies its colour
The result is a stone that displays vivid, bright colour — often rivalling solid opals many times its price — while being far more durable and consistent in shape and depth. For jewellers who need reliable calibrated sizes and repeatable results, triplets are an outstanding choice.
Why Jewellers Love Opal Triplets
Calibrated sizing — Triplets are cut to standard dimensions, making them ideal for pre-made settings, production runs, and matched pairs. You'll find our collection in sizes from 5mm rounds through to 20x8mm ovals and everything in between.
Consistent depth — Unlike freeform solids, triplets have a uniform profile that sits predictably in bezel and prong settings.
Vivid colour — The dark backing dramatically intensifies the play-of-colour, giving you bright blues, greens, purples, and multicolour fire even in smaller stones.
Durability — The protective cap shields the opal layer from scratching and impact, making triplets more robust than doublets for everyday jewellery.
Affordability — You get genuine Australian opal at a fraction of the cost of solid stones, allowing you to create beautiful pieces at accessible price points.
Our Opal Triplet Collection
We stock one of Australia's most comprehensive ranges of loose opal triplets for jewellers and makers. Here's a snapshot of what's available:
Loose Individual Triplets — Calibrated & Freeform
Perfect for custom settings, our individual gem opal triplets are available in a wide range of calibrated sizes from Mintabie, as well as unique freeform shapes ideal for wire wrapping and organic designs:
- Australian Gem Opal Triplet 17x12mm — Mintabie South Australia
- Australian Gem Opal Triplet 16x11mm — Mintabie South Australia
- Australian Gem Opal Triplet 14x10mm — Mintabie South Australia
- Australian Gem Opal Triplet 13x8mm — Mintabie South Australia
- Australian Gem Opal Triplet 18x8mm — Mintabie South Australia
- Australian Gem Opal Triplet 20x8mm — Mintabie South Australia
- Australian Gem Opal Triplet 6.35cts — Mintabie South Australia
- Loose Australian Opal Triplet 18x13mm — Gem Grade Multicolour
- Loose Australian Opal Triplet 16x12mm — Gem Grade Multicolour
- Australian Gem Crystal Freeform Opal Triplet 13x8mm 2.95cts — Coober Pedy
- Australian Gem Grade Freeform Opal Triplet 24x11mm 9.55cts — Mintabie
Matched Pairs — Ideal for Earrings
Sourced and matched for colour and size, our pairs take the guesswork out of earring production:
- Australian Opal Triplet Matched Pair 18x13mm — 13ct
- Australian Opal Triplet Matched Pair 10x8mm — Multi Colour
- Australian Opal Triplet Matching Pair 16x12mm 9.6cts — Coober Pedy
- Matching Pair Australian Gem Grade Opal Triplets 18x13mm
Bulk Parcels — For Production Jewellers
If you're running a production line or stocking your bench, our parcels offer excellent value:
- Australian Gem Opal Triplets 8x6mm — Parcel of 50 Stones
- Australian Gem Opal Triplets 14x10mm — Parcel of 20 Stones
- Australian Gem Opal Triplets 8x6mm — Parcel of 20 Stones
- Australian Gem Opal Triplets 10x8mm — Parcel of 10 Stones
- Australian Gem Opal Triplets 6x4mm — Parcel of 10 Stones
- Australian Gem Opal Triplets 6x4mm — Bulk Parcel 42 Stones
- Parcel Loose Australian Opal Triplets 7x5mm — 10 Stones Multicolour
- Australian Gem Opal Triplets 16x12mm — Set of 5 Stones
- Australian Gem Grade Opal Triplets — Freeform Set of 5
- Australian Gem Grade Opal Triplets — Freeform Set of 5 (B)
- Australian Gem Grade Opal Triplets — Freeform Set of 9
- Australian Freeform Gem Grade Opal Triplets 30.21cts — Set of 4 — Coober Pedy
Ready-Made Triplet Pendants — Sterling Silver
For makers who want a finished piece or a gift-ready option:
- Coober Pedy Opal Triplet Pendant 17.31cts — Sterling Silver
- Coober Pedy Opal Triplet Pendant 13.20cts — Sterling Silver
- Coober Pedy Opal Triplet Pendant 11cts — Sterling Silver
- Coober Pedy Opal Triplet Pendant 10cts — Sterling Silver
- Opal Triplet Pendant 7.585cts — Sterling Silver
- Australian Opal Triplet Triangle Pendant 11.875cts — Sterling Silver
- Coober Pedy Opal Triplet Owl Pendant 16.49cts — Sterling Silver
- Australian Gem Opal Triplet Pendant — Handmade Sterling Silver
Mosaic Triplet Earrings
A unique format where multiple opal pieces are arranged in a mosaic pattern for a bold, statement look:
Tips for Setting Opal Triplets
Bezel settings are ideal — A full bezel protects the edges of the stone and gives a clean, professional finish. Low-profile bezels work particularly well.
Avoid excessive heat — When soldering near a set triplet, use heat sinks and work quickly. The adhesive layers can be affected by prolonged direct heat.
Keep them dry during setting — Avoid prolonged soaking in pickle or ultrasonic cleaners. A quick rinse is fine; extended immersion is not.
Polish the cap, not the opal — The clear cap can be lightly polished if scratched. Never attempt to re-polish the opal layer itself.
Communicate care to your customers — Triplets are durable for everyday wear but should be kept away from harsh chemicals and abrasives. A simple care card goes a long way.
Sourcing & Wholesale
All of our opal triplets are sourced from Australian opal fields and ethically supplied. We work with jewellers, silversmiths, goldsmiths, and lapidary clubs across Australia and internationally.
If you're looking for a specific size, colour, or quantity not listed in our store, we welcome wholesale and trade enquiries. Contact Opal Essence to discuss your requirements.
Opal Essence — Australian Opals & Gemstones. Ethically sourced, expertly curated.