Mesmerising transformation from nobby to gem opal
Love gem opal but not into learning how to cut? This video is for you! Watch Justin transform an opal from a raw nobby into a … Read more
New and improved synthetic opal BEWARE!!
New synthetic opals are being created every year and manufacturers are getting better at replicating natural opal. I recently obtained some of the new material … Read more
Cutting large opals to perfection
Cutting large opals takes some time and effort. In this video Justin goes through the process once the stone has been rubbed into a rough … Read more
Campbell Bridges: Opal Explorer
Campbell Bridges is a world renowned geologist, explorer and gemologist. He discovered Tsavoritenand brought Tanzanite to the USA in the 1960s. One stone not synonymous … Read more
World’s rarest opal video: Part 2
The rough and unpolished gem weighs a massive 568.69 carats and measures 95 x 59 x 25 mm. For more on the origin and story visit … Read more
The world’s rarest opal: Part 1
Its birthplace Indigenous songlines run through Wollumbin, (the “Cloud Catcher”) which are the remains of an ancient volcano. This towering peak, also called Mt Warning, … Read more
Taking risks with opal: will the gamble pay off?
It’s pretty risky in our state at the moment with ex Tropical Cyclone Debbie battering us with heavy rain (12 inches in the last 24 … Read more
How to change a lapidary wheel on your machine
There are a few rules to follow when changing a lapidary wheel on your machine but it’s not as hard as you might think! In … Read more
The Amazing Women in Opal
It’s International Women’s Day today and I started thinking about all the women I have known and collaborated with over the years in the opal industry. … Read more
How to cut Andamooka crystal opal
We’ve shown you the special Anadmooka crystal as it is in the rough but what about cutting it? How does it respond in contrast to … Read more
Carving opal: The step by step process
Some of you might recognise this rough piece from Tucson. It came home with us so we decided it was the perfect piece to practice … Read more
Tucson 2017 pop-up
Tucson Pop-Up. Well it isn’t strictly a pop-up but we will be there and would love you all to come and visit! We have some … Read more
