Artist: Thistle & Bess

Based on one of my favorite pairs of antique drop earrings, the Bess Earrings feature colorful Ethiopian opals set in solid 14k yellow gold.

While many believe that opals are bad luck, this most likely stems from Sir Walter Scott’s 1829 gothic novel, Anne of Geirstein, where the mysterious Lady Hermione wears an opal in her hair and turns to ashes when her opal is splashed with holy water. We like to think the opposite and wear these magically colorful stones for good luck. Both our shop and these earrings are named after Queen Elizabeth I, a strong and fascinating woman way ahead of her time, who was often called “Good Queen Bess.”

Sold as a pair

Opal Care:

Keep Your Ethiopian Opals Away from Water and Liquids-

Ethiopian Opals are "hydrophane", which makes them thirsty for water. If the opals come in contact with water, they will absorb it like a sponge. If the opals are left in water and allowed to soak it up, they may lose their fire temporarily and turn yellow or brown. But don't worry, the fire and colour will come back once the opals have fully dried, which can take a few minutes to weeks, depending on how much water they managed to absorb.

Do Not Expose Your Opals to Extreme Changes in Temperature-

Opals are sometimes referred to as "living gems" due to their ability to soak up liquids. Ethiopian opals handle gradual temperature changes well. So when drying an opal that has managed to soak up water and lose its fire, let it dry naturally. Do not try to speed up the process by placing the opals under a hot light or hair dryer.

Avoid Liquid Chemicals Around Your Ethiopian Opals-

Because of the opal's "thirstiness", liquids like perfumes, soaps and cleaning products can stain your opals and change their colour. If that happens, try washing them with warm water and wiping with a soft cloth before allowing them to dry on their own.

Never Use an Ultrasonic Cleaner or a Steamer-

A lot of jewellers use ultrasonic cleaners to clean gemstone jewelery. While some gemstones can withstand it, Ethiopian opals are more fragile and may crack. To clean your opals, simply wipe away with a soft cloth.