Alvara | Three-Stone Ethiopian Opal Ring in Black Rhodium-Plated Sterling Silver

Not commonly seen, the sterling silver surface of this three-stone Ethiopian opal ring features a black rhodium-plated finish, giving the piece a dark, gothic vibe.  Further playing into this, two black Ethiopian opals flank the pale yellow-bodied cushion cut center stone, color-treated with smoke or dye for the aesthetic occasion.  Four pavé set cubic zirconia line each side of the ring's dark shank, providing sparkling white contrast to the piece.

It is best to understand that black rhodium is not a permanent treatment; though thought of as reasonably durable, it does wear with time at a speed dependent on skin acidity and aggressiveness of wear, revealing the white sterling silver beneath first at friction points.  For those who wish to preserve the gunmetal-gray plating, wear sparingly; for those who appreciate items that change with age, you might find yourself only more charmed with time and wear.

Approximate default ring size 9.00 US.  Due to its unusual plating, this ring cannot be resized.

To keep your Ethiopian opal jewelry in its best possible condition, we recommend keeping it away from water or any harsh chemicals.  Remove Ethiopian opal rings before washing your hands, bathing, and applying lotions or hand sanitizers.

More Information

The Center Stone: Natural Crystal Opal, solid

• country of origin: Ethiopia, Africa
• attributed mining locale: Wollo Province
• brightness of color play: B3 of 5
• body tone: N/A — pale yellowish body color
• shape: cushion shaped cabochon cut
• stone measurements (millimeters): 8.18mm x 6.09mm
• stone measurements (inches): 0.3" x 0.25"
• play of color description: predominantly pinkish red/green with yellow/orange overtones and blue undertones
  

The Accent Stones:

• Ethiopian Opal, treated
  
  • stone count: 2
  • origin: Wollo Province, Ethiopia, Africa
  • brightness of color play: B1.5 of 5
    
  • shape: oval cabochon cut
  • average stone measurements (millimeters): 4.99mm x 3.24mm
    
  • treatments: likely smoke-treated or dyed
• Cubic Zirconia, synthetic
  • stone count: 8
  • cut: faceted round brilliant cuts
    
  • color: white/colorless

The Setting: Prong Set Three-Stone Ring with Black Rhodium Plating

• metal: .925 sterling silver, solid — plated in black rhodium
• top of ring width: 8.15mm (0.33")
• ring height from finger: 6.29mm (0.25")
• bottom of shank width: 2.42mm
• ring weight: 2.96 grams
• approximate default ring size: 9.00 US