Copyte Needle Nobby

The Copyte Needle Nobby we’re cutting today is not your average piece of rough. This half nobby is missing the classic cap you’d expect to see — and in its place? A web of copyte needles running through the surface. These fine strand-like inclusions can sit lightly on the skin… or run deep into the heart of a gem. And that’s where the gamble begins.

Under the skin, though, the color is undeniable. Even before the wheel starts spinning, flashes of magnificent Lightning Ridge color beam through — fiery reds, glowing oranges, and electric greens hint at something special. A small red bar tucked down near the potch teases serious potential. The question isn’t whether the color is there. The question is: will it clean up?

There’s only one way to find out.

Cut Through the Needles and Chase the Color

Cutting this Copyte Needle Nobby demands precision from the very first touch of the wheel. A fine wheel is chosen — not for heavy removal, but for careful, surgical work. The goal is clear: remove the copyte needles without sacrificing the color bar hiding beneath.

As the top skin begins to disappear, the stone reveals its personality. The deeper we cut, the better the color becomes. An orange flare through the greens with that unmistakable old Lightning Ridge field brightness. But those needles? Some of them run deeper than expected. Every millimetre removed is a trade-off between clarity and carat weight.

At one point, the temptation to remove the dark potch from the back to expose more color is real. But integrity wins. The darker base enhances the play-of-color, giving the gem a richer appearance. The dome is rolled carefully, sand spots are chased out, and gradually the stone begins to take shape.

This is opal cutting at its most honest. It’s a gamble. It’s patience. And sometimes, it’s knowing when to stop.

Copyte Needle Nobby Delivers a Bright Surprise

Despite the challenges, this Copyte Needle Nobby delivers. While a few tiny needles remain deep within the gem, the brightness more than compensates. With a brightness rating of five and a stunning display of color from every angle, this dark crystal opal stands proud.

The final weight settles at 5.39 carats — right around the hoped-for mark, even after sacrificing material to clean up surface inclusions. At approximately $2,500 per carat, this stone proves that even a risky nobby can reward steady hands and smart decisions.

Opal cutting doesn’t always go to plan. But when color like this shines through adversity, it reminds us why we take the risk in the first place.

And yes… we’re already eyeing the rest of the parcel.