Sign in
Cart
Australian opals are renowned worldwide for their vibrant and unique play-of-color, making them one of the most sought-after opals globally. Opals are a type of mineraloid composed of hydrated silica, and their characteristic play-of-colour arises from the diffraction of light within the microscopic silica spheres that make up the stone.
Here are some key points about Australian opals:
1. Types of Australian Opals:
– *Black Opal:*
Mined primarily in Lightning Ridge, New South Wales Australia. Black opals are known for their dark body tone, which enhances the brilliance of their play-of-colour.
– *White Opal:*
These opals have a lighter body tone and are found in various locations, including Coober Pedy in South Australia and Mintabie in the Northern Territory.
– *Crystal Opal:*
Characterized by a transparent to semi-transparent body, crystal opals showcase a play-of-colour against a clear or translucent background. They are found in various Australian opal fields.
2. Play-of-Colour:
– The mesmerizing play-of-colour is the most distinctive feature of opals. It can include a wide spectrum of colours, and the patterns can vary from pinpricks of light to broad flashes.
3. Opal Fields in Australia:
– Australia is home to several opal fields, each producing opals with unique characteristics. Notable fields include Lightning Ridge (New South Wales), Coober Pedy (South Australia), Andamooka (South Australia), and Mintabie (Northern Territory).
4. Mining Methods:
– Opals are mined using various methods, including open-cut mining, underground mining, and tunneling. Coober Pedy is famous for its underground mining, where miners dig tunnels to extract opals.
5. Ethiopian Opals:
– While Australia has long been the main source of high-quality opals, Ethiopia has emerged as another significant producer of opals, including precious and fire opals.
6. Opal Treatments:
– Some Non-Australian opals may undergo treatments to enhance their appearance or stability. Common treatments include impregnation with a colorless resin to improve durability.
7. Cultural Significance:
– Opals hold cultural significance for Indigenous Australians. They are often associated with dreamtime stories and are considered a symbol of good luck and spiritual connection.
8. Opal Jewellery:
– Australian opals are widely used in jewellery, including rings, earrings, pendants, and necklaces. The unique and individual characteristics of each opal make them prized gems in the world of jewellery.
When buying Australian opals, it’s essential to purchase from reputable dealers and to be aware of factors such as colour, clarity, size, and overall quality to ensure you get a genuine, beautiful and unique coloured stone.