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Australian Opal
Australian opals, widely regarded as one of the most premium types of opals, are highly revered semi-precious stones whose value even surpasses even some of the most precious gemstones. Found primarily in the opal mines of Australia, natural Australian opals are fabled for their eye-pleasing play of colors and fire-like appearance. As Australian opals are vehemently believed to bring luxury and good luck, this scintillating gemstone is embraced by astrologers and the general masses as it represents the planet Venus.
The New South Wales region in Australia produces top-notch quality opal gemstones. Australian opals with beautiful play of colors and fire are the Numero Uno choice for opal lovers. Other noteworthy regions in Australia for boulder opals are Opalton, Quilpie, Winton, and Yowah.
Australian Opal Price
Australian opal gemstone is prized worldwide for its vivid play-of-color and unique patterns. The price of Australian opal is widely influenced by several key factors, such as:
Type of Opal: Black Opal (from Lightning Ridge) is the rarest and most valuable due to its dark body tone that enhances color contrast. Boulder Opal (Queensland) and White Opal (Coober Pedy) follow in value, with boulder opal often commanding higher prices than white opal for its natural ironstone backing and vibrant flashes.
Play-of-Color: Bright, vivid, and multi-directional color play significantly increases value. Red and orange hues are rarer and more valuable than blue or green.
Pattern & Brilliance: Distinct, sharp patterns (e.g., harlequin, ribbon, floral) with high brilliance (intensity of color) are more desirable. Harlequin patterns—large, angular patches of color—are especially rare and valuable.
Body Tone: Darker body tones (N1–N4 on the scale) typically enhance color visibility and increase value, especially in black opal. Lighter body tones (N7–N9) are less valuable unless they display exceptional color.
Clarity & Transparency: Transparent or semi-transparent opals (like crystal opal) can be highly valuable if they show strong play-of-color. Inclusions, cracks, or “potch” (colorless opal) reduce value.
Cut, Shape & Polish: Well-cut, symmetrical stones with smooth polish fetch higher prices. Freeform shapes are common due to opal’s irregular seams, but calibrated sizes for jewelry settings add value.
Size & Weight: Larger opals with consistent color and pattern are rarer and more valuable per carat. However, quality outweighs size—smaller, high-grade opals can be worth more than larger, duller ones.
Origin & Provenance: Opals from renowned fields (e.g., Lightning Ridge, Coober Pedy, Andamooka) carry prestige. Ethically sourced, documented Australian opals are preferred in global markets.
Australian Opal Benefits
Australian opal, renowned for its vibrant colors and unique patterns, is more than just a stunning gemstone. Mined primarily in regions like Coober Pedy, Lightning Ridge, and Queensland, it offers several benefits:
Aesthetic Appeal: Australian opals display a mesmerizing play of colors, from fiery reds to cool blues, making them a favorite for jewelry. Their unique patterns, like black opal’s dark base or boulder opal’s earthy matrix, add individuality to each piece.
Emotional & Spiritual Benefits: Often called the "stone of inspiration," opal is believed to enhance creativity, imagination, and emotional balance. Many associate it with boosting confidence and fostering positive relationships.
Healing Properties: In crystal healing, Australian opal is thought to aid emotional healing, alleviate stress, and support physical health, particularly for the eyes and immune system. Its calming energy may promote mental clarity.
Cultural Significance: As Australia’s national gemstone, opal holds cultural importance, symbolizing the country’s natural beauty and heritage. It’s a meaningful gift or keepsake for those connected to Australia.
Investment Value: High-quality Australian opals, especially rare black are of very high value and worth investing for a long time.
How To Wear Australian Opal Stone
Australian opal dazzles hard with its shifting colors. One must wear it right to let its beauty shine while keeping it safe at the same time:
Jewelry Choices: Original Australian opals fit best in pendants, earrings, or brooches for daily sparkle with less risk. Rings are stunning but choose protective settings (like bezels) for active lifestyles.
Style Tip: Pair with neutral or dark outfits to make the opal’s colors pop. Let it be the star — avoid busy patterns or competing gemstones.
Care While Wearing: Remove before showering, swimming, cleaning, or exercising. Opals are softer gems and sensitive to knocks, heat, and chemicals.
Storage: Store separately in a soft pouch. In dry climates, add a slightly damp cotton ball to prevent dehydration and cracking.
Meaning & Mood: Wear as October’s birthstone, a creativity booster, or simply as a conversation-starting treasure. Opal suits every style — from boho to elegant.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is Australian opal valuable?
Yes, Australian opal can be highly valuable, especially rare types like black opal from Lightning Ridge. Value depends on color, pattern, clarity, and size, with top-quality stones fetching high prices in the gem market.
Does Australian opal attract money?
In crystal lore, Australian opal is believed to attract prosperity and abundance by enhancing creativity and confidence, though there’s no scientific evidence to support this claim.
Which finger is best for Australian opal?
The ring finger or index finger of the dominant hand is often recommended for wearing opal to maximize its supposed emotional and creative benefits.
Which rashi can wear Australian opal?
In Vedic astrology, Australian opal is often associated with Libra (Tula) and Cancer (Karka) rashis, as it’s believed to align with their emotional and creative energies. Always consult an astrologer for personalized advice.
Australian Opal
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