Foil opal

Foil opalsare simulatedopalgemstones that first came into vogue during the jewelry-making boom of the late-Victorian era. Across Europe and the United States, these faux gemstones joined theirpastecounterparts (simulateddiamonds,emeralds,rubiesandsapphiresmade from glass) as the need for jewelry outstripped bothgemstoneavailability and nouveaumiddle-classbudgets. The term 'foil' refers to an actual metal foil that was sometimes used to create reflection and sparkle behind milky glass orquartzfaces. Though technically incorrect, other simulated opals with various types of sparkling inclusions or shiny backings are sometimes also referred to as 'foil opals' by jewelry collectors.

See also

• Cacholong
• Synthetic gemstones