How do you tell the different types of opal? In this video Justin will take you through the four main Australian opal types – as well as a newly discovered one not yet gone mainstream. Understanding opal starts with understanding the basic types of opal found. Black Opal Black opal is the most valuable type of opal and it is predominantly found in Lightning Ridge. It is called black opal due to the dark body tone of the gem. This dark body tone appears because the natural backing or tint of the stone is dark grey or black common potch (opal without colour). With the potch on the underside the light…
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Opal Pattern Types Revealed on Video
If you only watch one video on opal pattern types make it this one – our best yet. It’s all well and good to see an image of a pattern but, in order to really understand how it works, you must be able to see it move and emerge though a stone. In this video each opal is shown in close-up revealing its pattern and color secrets. The following opal pattern types are covered: Rolling Flash Mackerel Sky Boulder Matrix Moss Harlequin Broadflash Cloverleaf Feather Asteria Flagstone Sheen Chinese Writing Pinfire Chaff Floral Broadflash/Chaff Flash of Fire Watch this video and never again will you be wondering – what opal pattern type…
Read MoreThe challenge of how to value opal: Why can’t it be easy?
Let’s face it, it’s hard to value opal. Some days we all wish it were as easy as diamonds. Cut, color, clarity and carat and viola – it is done. Yes, I know the experts will say that diamonds are a bit harder than that but for the lay person – that is the basics. In today’s video Justin lays out the framework for why opals aren’t as simple as diamonds. Opal has far more variables. 1. Lots of Patterns: Broadflash, Pinfire, Floral, Harlequin and many that defy naming! 2. Many types of Opal: Black, Semi-black, Crystal, White and Boulder are all found in Australia. 3. It’s pretty rare:…
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