A Sentimental Opal, Reimagined in Yellow Gold

Some gemstones carry stories that span decades, and this opal is no exception. Bought in Australia 30 years ago by her son, this stone held deep personal meaning for our client. But after years of being tucked away—or worn cautiously in a dated setting—it was time for a much-needed upgrade.

Rather than start from scratch, we chose to reuse every stone from the original ring. Not only does this preserve the sentimental value, but it also minimizes waste and ensures that nothing meaningful gets left behind. The result is a custom design that reflects who she is today—while still honoring where the piece came from.

We switched from the original white gold setting to rich yellow gold, and the difference is stunning. Yellow gold plays beautifully with opals, bringing out the fire and subtle flashes of color that can otherwise get lost in cooler metals. The new setting offers both security and comfort, allowing her to wear the ring every day with confidence.

Designing around an opal does require care—this gemstone is softer and more sensitive than many others. But with a thoughtful setting and the right metal choice, opals can absolutely shine in everyday jewelry.

Now, her opal ring tells an even fuller story: one of cherished memories, thoughtful craftsmanship, and everyday wearability. It’s a reminder that jewelry is meant to be lived in—and loved, again and again.