Opal gemstone

Opals for sale by Australian Opals & Woodturning

We offer rare and beautiful Australian opals, expertly cut and polished to reveal the most vibrant colours and patterns within each rough stone

Our unique collection of opal gemstones

Browse Australian Opals & Woodturning’s selection of the finest opal gemstones, each showcasing the vibrant colours and unique patterns that make Australian opals so sought-after.

See all opals

Our selection of Australian opal gemstones

Our collection of opal gemstones covers a cross-section of Australian opals, each sourced from the country’s most iconic opal fields. We offer a wide range of opals, from the deep, vibrant hues of black opals from Lightning Ridge to the striking, ironstone-veined boulder opals from Queensland, and the light, playful tones of Coober Pedy white and crystal opals. Each gemstone is hand-selected for its unique colour and character.

We offer a range of cuts and styles, making our opals perfect for individuals seeking unique, high-quality gemstones for their jewellery. From opal rings and necklaces to cufflinks, each piece captures Australian opals’ natural beauty and elegance.

We offer different opal types.

Black opals

Black opals, sourced from Lightning Ridge, are known for their intense, dark body tone and vibrant play of colour. They are highly prized for their rarity and depth.

Boulder opals

Boulder opals from Queensland are unique for their stunning matrix formations, which feature natural, earthy patterns and flashes of colour.

Coober Pedy opals

Famous for their light, pastel tones and crystal clarity, Coober Pedy opals bring a classic, understated elegance to any collection.

How we grade our opals for quality and colour

Our opals are carefully graded to ensure that each gemstone meets the highest standards of quality, color, and beauty. Understanding an opal’s quality and grading is essential when selecting one, as each stone has unique characteristics that influence its value and visual appeal.

Here’s an outline of the grading criteria we use to assess and grade our opals, helping you choose the perfect piece for your collection or jewellery.

Play of colour

The most defining characteristic of opals is the play of colour, which refers to the vibrant flashes and patterns within the stone. We grade based on these colours’ brightness, range, and intensity, with the most vivid stones being the most highly valued.

Transparency and clarity

Opals vary in transparency, from opaque to transparent, each affecting the stone’s appearance and desirability. Black and boulder opals, with their dark body tones, are prized for intense colours, while crystal and Coober Pedy opals showcase softer, translucent hues.

Cut and shape

Each opal is carefully shaped to enhance its natural beauty. We specialise in cabochon cuts that highlight the stone’s colour and depth and freeform cuts that embrace the opal’s unique shape and character.

How to care for your opal gemstones

Opals are prized for their vibrant colours and unique patterns but require proper care to maintain their beauty over time. With a few simple care practices, you can ensure that your opal gemstones remain as stunning as the day you received them.

Here are some simple care instructions.

Opal storage

Store your opals in a cool, moist environment, such as a soft cloth pouch or a jewellery box with a small, damp cotton ball. This helps to prevent the stone from drying out and reduces the risk of cracking.

Opal cleaning

Clean your opal gently using a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, which can damage the stone’s surface. For jewellery with opals, regular gentle cleaning will help maintain its lustre without compromising its natural beauty.

Opal handling

Opals are delicate and can scratch or chip if not handled carefully. It is best to remove opal jewellery before engaging in activities that expose the gemstone to hard impacts or rough surfaces. This will help keep your opal looking its best for years to come.

Opal shapes, cutting styles, and finishing techniques

Each opal in our collection is designed to enhance its natural beauty, using cutting and polishing techniques that reveal the stone’s best colours and patterns. Our expertise in shaping and finishing ensures that every gemstone achieves its highest potential, making it a remarkable centrepiece for jewellery or display.

Shapes and cutting styles

Cabochon cut

Our most popular cut, cabochon opals, have a smooth, rounded shape that maximises the play of colour and creates a classic, polished look.

Freeform cut

For a more organic and unique shape, freeform cuts follow the opal’s natural lines, celebrating the stone’s individuality and making each piece a one-off creation.

Polishing and finishing

Our opals are polished by hand, a detailed process that brings out the depth of colour and vibrant patterns within each stone. This careful finishing enhances the opal’s natural beauty and ensures a durable, high-quality gemstone ready for jewellery or collection.  

Sourcing opals from Australia’s iconic mines with integrity

Australian Opals & Woodturning is committed to responsibly sourcing opals, partnering with trusted miners and wholesalers in Australia’s most renowned opal regions. By working closely with these local partners, we ensure that every gemstone in our collection meets high standards of quality, authenticity, and sustainability. This approach supports the local mining communities and protects the rich natural heritage of Australia’s opal fields.

Direct partnerships with miners

We source our black opals from the Lightning Ridge area, boulder opals from trusted mines in Queensland, and Coober Pedy opals from established, ethical suppliers. This direct approach allows us to hand-select each stone, ensuring it meets our strict quality standards and reflects the true beauty and authenticity of Australian opals.

Support for sustainable mining

Our suppliers practice sustainable mining methods that minimise environmental impact, ensuring Australia’s opal resources are responsibly managed for future generations.

Focus on community support

We value our partnerships with local mining communities, which contribute to sustainable economic growth and respect the heritage of Australia’s opal regions.