To choose between an opal tooth gem and a crystal rhinestone, start with the look: clear crystal creates crisp flashes of light, while opal has a milkier appearance and shifting reflections.
The shape, dimensions and colour matter just as much as the material when assessing how much space the gem will take up in your smile.
The opening image is an illustrative comparison; it does not reproduce a specific catalogue variant.
Opal and crystal: two different visual effects
Crystal for a point of light
The Preciosa Crystal model is transparent and has facets that create a well-defined sparkle.
It is an option to explore if you want the classic look of a small, sparkling rhinestone without a dominant colour.
Opal for a shape with soft reflections
The gems in our opal collection have a milkier appearance, with reflections that change with the lighting and viewing angle.
The product pages for the models featured here state “synthetic opal”; do not confuse them with natural stone.
That description alone does not establish a detailed composition or any certification.
Compare the dimensions, not just the photo
A Preciosa Crystal SS5 measures 1.8 mm, whereas the Opal Heart is listed as 3 × 3 mm on its product page.
These two models therefore have different outlines and take up different amounts of space: their difference in visibility is not due to the material alone.
When comparing an elongated shape with a round rhinestone, look at the actual width and height rather than their apparent size on screen.
Three ways to choose based on the look you want
You want a subtle, sparkling detail
Start by comparing small round crystals, checking their diameter and the look you want with the person who will apply them.
You prefer a recognisable shape
An opal heart can be the main motif if you like soft reflections; its size also needs to suit the design.
You are considering combining the two
Prepare a proposed design with an opal motif and a small crystal, then compare it with a version using a single gem.
This is a composition idea to discuss before application, not a placement instruction or a guarantee of the result.
Why one photo is not always enough
Look at several views of the same variant, if available, and compare the gems under similar lighting.
A reflection seen in a photo does not guarantee exactly the same colour in every lighting condition.
Our guide to photographing tooth gems with a smartphone explains how to show their appearance more faithfully.
Four checks before ordering
- Check the variant name and colour rather than relying solely on the general product photo.
- Read the dimensions in millimetres and compare them with your planned design.
- Check the pack size: the Opal Heart is sold individually, while the Preciosa Crystal product page lists approximately 60 pieces.
- Check the availability of your chosen variant and the usage information on its product page.
An aesthetic choice does not replace precautions
The American Dental Association advises against cosmetic tooth gems because of oral health risks, including plaque accumulation, tooth decay and irritation.
Before application, seek advice from a dentist; if you have pain, irritation or concerns about a tooth, postpone your plans and consult a dentist.
This comparison provides general information about aesthetic choices: it is neither a diagnosis nor an application protocol.
Frequently asked questions
Are the opal gems featured here made from natural stone?
The product pages consulted specify synthetic opal, so we do not describe these gems as natural opal.
Are Crystal AB and opal the same thing?
No: they are two distinct catalogue references, even though both can have iridescent reflections.
To choose between the two crystal finishes, read the Crystal and Crystal AB comparison.
Does opal stay attached longer than crystal?
We have no verified comparison that would support that claim; the choice of material does not guarantee how long a gem will stay attached.
Choose a look that suits you
Consider crystal if you want to compare clear flashes of light, and opal if you want a motif with a milky, shifting appearance, then check the dimensions and exact variant.
To continue choosing, explore the opal tooth gems and compare their product pages with the Crystal model featured above.
Sources and verified information
- American Dental Association, oral jewellery and ornaments: position and risks, updated August 2026.
- ADA News, dentists’ views on tooth gems, page accessed 27 October 2026, with no publication date displayed.
The dimensions, pack sizes and material descriptions come from the Tooth Gems World product pages linked in this article, accessed 27 October 2026.
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