Play-of-Colors: The play of colors is the most critical factor that affects the value of a Black Opal specimen. This optical effect results from the internal structure of the gemstone, where silica spheres diffract light to produce vibrant flashes of colors such as blue, green, and red. The play of colors of Black Opals is way better than other categories of opals because of the stone’s black backdrop, and this is another factor that increases the value of Black Opals. This is why Black Opal rings are costlier than other opal rings.

Brilliance and Transparency: Brilliance means how clear and bright the colors of a stone appear when it is viewed face-up. The transparency of Black Opals is higher in comparison to other varieties of opals, and this is why Black Opals allow more light to pass through them, enhancing the overall play of colors. The better the play of colors, the more the value of an opal – this factor also affects the overall value of Black Opal rings.

Size and Shape: Larger opals are generally rarer than smaller ones, and this is why if you are eyeing a Black Opal ring with a larger stone, it would be priced higher than the one having a smaller Black Opal. Also, certain shapes, like oval or cushion cuts maximize the display of play of colors present in opals, thereby making the stone more attractive and more expensive. So, if your ring features such shapes, or if the Black Opal present in your ring is bigger, then your Black Opal ring will be priced higher.

Patterns: The patterns that are exhibited by a particular Black Opal specimen also affect its value. For instance, rare and unique patterns such as harlequin or rolling flashes are more desirable than the common pin-fire pattern. This is why if you have opted for a Black Opal ring with some unique pattern, it would be priced higher than the ordinary ones.