Lightning Ridge Archives - Black Opal Direct

Posted on 18/03/201918/03/2019 by Ruth BT

The Australian Opal Centre becomes a reality

FANTASTIC NEWS! The Australian Opal Centre (AOC), an icon for outback Australia and the home of all things opal has been funded! The local, state and federal governments have come together after almost 15 years of lobbying and put aside almost $19 million dollars to stage phase 1 of the project. Along with community contributions and the Founders program, the AOC has a total available pool of over $20 million dollars. We are so very excited for all those involved and the community of Lightning Ridge at large. The Australian Opal Centre as a centre of education, training and certification has been a project close to the hearts of many…

Posted on 22/04/201622/04/2016 by Ruth BT

Aboriginal origins of opal

WARNING: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are warned that the following post contains mention of deceased persons. The Aboriginal origins of opal are part of the Dreamtime stories. There are a number of stories and at least two from the Lightning Ridge region. The one I think resonates the best and which can be verified is from a wonderful wise Aunty (Elder) in Lightning Ridge. She hailed from the local Kamilaroi people and was much loved in the community. She always had a smile and a laugh at the ready. The dreamtime story of the origins of opal was passed to her and it is repeated in her words below. HOW THE OPAL CAME TO BE A…

Posted on 10/08/201503/08/2016 by Justin Thomas

2015 Lightning Ridge Opal Festival and Jewellery Design Awards IOJDAA 2015

The 2015 Lightning Ridge Opal Festival was a great success with many sellers, tourists and buyers coming from all around the world. It seem the Chinese market is growing from strength to strength with many more Chinese turning up to buy. The bi-annual International Opal Jewellery Design awards (IOJDAA 2015) was one of the best I have ever been too. The place was packed and Lightning Ridge was sparkling. The awards show included models (locals) parading through the audience wearing the designs as well as showcasing a fashion collaboration between Linda Jackson and fashion label Romance Was Born. Linda was always been passionate about Australian Opal and has designed and collaborated…