Boulder Opal

'Boulder opal is an exquisite gem, having a unique brilliance of colour found in no other precious stone. Many things about it are attractively different, especially the strong natural back and stability.

This magnificent gem is found only in the vast arid regions of western Queensland. It is a beautiful child of the desert and to those who would seek her hiding place she says, “come and find me if you can. ” When found, her plea is to be handled with the tenderness and love she deserves, for she is not a child of the crude and tasteless, but a symbol of purity and hope, stirring the hearts and passions of all with her twinkling eyes and tantalising beauty.'

Boulder opal is one of the world’s most beautiful and versatile gems, having every known pattern and variety including the brilliant black and sparkling crystal.

Boulder opal, found in the fields of Queensland, is classified as a solid opal and occurs as thin veins of precious opal in cracks and cavities of ironstone. During processing, the stone is cut leaving the natural host rock as backing. The opal occurs as either a solid piece of colour on top of the ironstone or showing as flashing flecks of colour throughout the stone.

The Opalton-Mayneside area of Queensland, Australia, has a reputation for producing the most brilliant boulder opal. In many mines, boulders occur at random within specific boundaries, giving little guidance to the inexperienced of their concealment.

Interested in cutting your own opal?
Read a comprehensive guide to cutting your own boulder opal thanks to Eugene McDevitt at lapidaryjournal.com

Boulder opal is found in the Queensland opal fields of Australia. Follow the link to read up on the major fields of Queensland.

top