This 11,000 carat opal has been sitting in a safe for over 60 years and no one has ever attempted to cut it…until today.
The stone is a 2.2 kg (4.8 lb) Andamooka opal. As you can see in the video the massive stone consists of a rare mix of white quartz infused with opal.
Justin from Black Opal Direct was fortunate enough to get his hands on this massive opal specimen. And he’s decided to take us on an “over the shoulder” journey with him as he chooses to not cut the stone, but carve, shape and polish it into a work of art.
With the help from his team, he carves away just enough of the quartz matrix to expose the incredible opal that’s hidden inside the stone.
What Is Andamooka Opal?
Andamooka opal is a type of precious opal that comes from the Andamooka area in South Australia, one of the oldest opal mining regions in the country. What makes Andamooka opal special is its stunning play of colors—flashes of red, blue, green, and every color in between that shimmer and change as you move the stone in light. This rainbow-like effect is caused by the way silica (a type of mineral) particles inside the opal diffract light.
Unlike some other gemstones that are valued for their clarity or the lack of imperfections, opals are all about the color show they put on. The more vibrant and diverse the colors in an opal, the more valuable it is considered to be. Andamooka opals are particularly prized for their brilliant colors and patterns, making them a favorite among collectors and jewelry makers.
Opals are unique because each one is different. The variety of patterns and colors means that no two Andamooka opals are exactly alike. This uniqueness adds to their appeal and value. So, when you’re looking at an Andamooka opal, you’re not just looking at a pretty stone; you’re looking at a one-of-a-kind piece of natural art!
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