Who created the first marketable synthetic opal?

The creation of the first marketable synthetic opal is attributed to Pierre Gilson. He developed a process to synthesize opal in the 1970s, which was significant because it allowed for the production of opals that could be marketed to the jewelry industry and collectors. Synthetic opals created by Gilson were notable for their visual appeal and certain structural characteristics that closely mimic those of natural opals. This innovation opened up new avenues for the gemstone market, providing an alternative to natural opals while avoiding the environmental and ethical concerns associated with mining.

Understanding the impact of Gilson's work is crucial in the context of how synthetic gemstones have evolved over time, their acceptance in the market, and their role in the broader jewelry industry.