Consider whether the opal is to be purchased for investment, as a gift, or for your self. An investment stone should be as perfect as possible with rich colour as in black opal or Queensland boulder opal.

When selecting a stone for a gift, choose a traditional oval or pear-shape in a size which would suit a variety of jewellery styles, and avoid a dominating strong single colour in case the recipient does not wear that colour. But when choosing an opal for yourself to wear and enjoy, explore the full range of shapes, colours and varieties, some of which are seldom seen outside Australia, and choose one that appeals to your own personality. Every opal is different, and there is literally one for everyone.