Gems emerge from rough opal
Gems emerge from rough opal… Sometimes its a real challenge to work out what to do with a piece of rough opal. While Justin may … Read more
How to improve the value of opal | VIDEO
In this latest video watch master cutter Justin from Black Opal Direct show you how to improve the value of opal. Justin happily shows you … Read more
The Secrets of Opal Prospecting
Justin heads out to Lightning Ridge to talk about how to find opal. After drilling in excess of 3000 holes in the pursuit of opal, Sebastian, … Read more
2015 Tucson Gem Show – opal trends and what the future holds
Mind-blowing and busy – that’s how we would describe the 2015 Tucson Gem Show. A celebration of all things Gem, Mineral and Fossil the choice … Read more
What opal cutting wheels do I need?
What opal cutting wheels do I need is an often asked question. In this video, Justin will show you exactly what your options are. We … Read more
Tuscon 2015 – Book your exclusive appointment with Justin NOW!
You’ve asked, your’ve begged and the stars have finally aligned – we are going to be in Tucson for the gems shows in Feb 2015! … Read more
Making Christmas special for 14-year-old opal cutting enthusiast
Thank you to all in our community for making Christmas special for someone. A few weeks ago we brought you the story of Steiner Florian, a … Read more
Talent in unexpected places: Opal cutting with sandpaper and leather
Yesterday morning I was sent an image on Facebook by someone who asked if the stone was a real opal. As you can see from … Read more
Opals have Energy
We buy opal for many reasons, most obviously because it’s beautiful, but there is often something more. It speaks to us. It tells us a … Read more
The 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, colour, clarity and carat and … Read more
How to handle small opals when cutting
Small opals can yield amazing colours and patterns. Watch the instructional video on how to handle small opals when cutting. The cutting process remains the … Read more
Opal in wood: Designer spotlight
You may not know, but I am addicted to Instagram. Recently a virtual friend Benjamin (@thirdcoastgems), showcased an extremely talented designer called Joel (@freestonepeach). He is … Read more
