Opal Nobby Number 1

Opal Nobby number 1 has the potential to cut a nice gem. It shows that rare red-blue color across the nobby, however, the sand is going to be an issue.

SPOILER ALERT: If this one cuts well, there may be a celebration at the end of the video!

Sand Inspection

While inspecting the opal nobby the things that stand out are:

• The incredible vibrance of the red-blue color throughout the gem.
• The amount of sand sprawling across the nobby.
• I may have to entertain slicing it to bypass sand.
• It will be a slow and intricate cut.

It looks like it may cut 1ct with the pressure of all the sand, however, I really need at least 3cts. The ultimate goal is to cut a gem with a face entirely free of sand. Which means I may have to sacrifice some color to achieve this.

Cutting Process

As I work my way through the cut, I am pleasantly surprised with how the sand is coming off with ease. I take the gem to the lightbox for a closer look. The gem is almost free of all sand except for a spot of along the top edge. To the slicer we go, I’m aiming for an oval and a little triangle. This will allow me to get the most out of this nobby.

Slicing the nobby has paid off – woo hoo! It has given me a beautiful oval gem with a much larger-than-expected clean face. And a gorgeous little triangle as the cherry on top. Showing a glorious red broadflash pattern, we finally have a winner!