Category: Mining Opal

Posted on by

Update: Save Lightning Ridge Campaign

Opal Miner Ormie Molyneux

Thank you to everyone for their support all around the world for the Save Lightning Ridge campaign. The New South Wales State Government is now listening and while things are slow when it comes to government, we are seeing movement in a positive direction. One of the main issues for the miners of Lightning Ridge was the large increase in security deposits for mining claims.  Larger payments meant that mining was no longer viable for many of the smaller part-time and hobby miners, a backbone of the community and industry. The Minister for Resources, Chris Hartcher released a media statement earlier this month. “The NSW Government has listened and responded…

Read More
Posted on by

Lightning Ridge Opal Buying Update

Ribbon Pattern Black Opal 4ct

I’ve just returned from Lightning Ridge and spent lots of time catching up with friends. I saw some amazing opal  – much of it new but there were some pieces I remembered my Father cutting years ago – it brought back many old memories. Many of the professional opal miners are also collectors. They are sitting on opal that they have mined over the years that is just breathtaking. Bruce* is one of these and is most passionate about our stone. He reckons that if he sells it, he will never see opal like it again. Maybe, maybe not I say. Pieces like the harlequin pattern I sold a few…

Read More