A TRULY SPECIAL OPAL. IT HAS A BROWN BASE COLOUR TO THE GEM WHICH IS WHAT YOU REALLY WANT. THIS MEANS THAT IT HAS NOT GONE FOR ANY TREATMENTS TO DARKEN THE GEM TO BLACK (NORMALLY BY SMOKING IT). ON TOP OF THIS IT HAS GOOD PLAY OF COLOUR - I WAS BATTLING TO TAKE PICTURES TO GET A GOOD PICTURE WITH A LOT OF THE COLOURS IN ONE PICTURE, BUT BELIEVE ME, WHEN YOU MOVE THIS GEM AROUND, THE COLOURS ARE EVERYWHERE.

 Gem-quality opal is one of the most spectacular gemstones. A single stone can flash every color of the spectrum with an intensity and quality of color that can surpass the "fire" of diamond. The best opals can command prices per carat that rival expensive diamonds, rubies and emeralds. Opal is one of the most popular gems. 

Although opal is found throughout the world, almost all of that opal, is common opal, and of very little value. Most of the precious opal deposits that have been discovered are in Australia. Historically, mines in Australia have produced at least 90% of the world's precious opal. However, a new challenge has emerged in Ethiopia, where several new deposits of untested size are now producing extremely attractive opals of unique beauty. 

Black opal is by far the most valuable and appreciated of all opal varieties, especially those from Australia's famous Lightning Ridge. Black Opals are the 8th Rarest Gemstone in the world. Black opal body tones range from a dark gray to black, and the dark background acts as the base for the spectrum of colors it can display. Despite its descriptive name, black opal can, in fact, encompass various colors. Top quality specimens can reflect the full spectrum of colors through their unique play of color quality.

Almost all black opals are mined from Northern New South Wales and the majority of these are mined specifically from Lightning Ridge. Lighting Ridge has become known as the world's biggest supplier of black opal, and extracts incredible amounts of opal all year round. Other sources for black opal include Ethiopia. But the Ethiopian black opal is still not quite there when it comes to the Australian Black Opal. No other origin or source can rival the quality and color of Australia's black opal.

PICTURE TAKEN WITH CELL 

The precise colour may vary depending on the specific monitor, the settings and the lighting conditions.

PICTURE IS ENLARGED

  Gem type:OPAL