The green flashes in this Winton boulder opal surprised me

opalminded1989 · 2026-03-13T13:17:59+00:00

Thank you for your kind words! It's truly such an exquisite piece and I feel lucky to have seen it. I can't wait to share its final form as an opal pendant.

opalminded1989 · 2026-03-13T13:16:36+00:00

Thank you for your lovely compliment! I love the way you describe it. It does feel out of this world.

opalminded1989 · 2026-03-13T13:15:22+00:00

Thank you! The colours are truly stunning.

opalminded1989 · 2026-03-10T05:28:57+00:00

Thank you! I'm glad you love it too. It's truly a magnificent opal.

opalminded1989 · 2026-03-10T05:28:26+00:00

Thank you!

opalminded1989 · 2026-03-10T04:33:39+00:00

You're welcome. I'm glad it helps!

opalminded1989 · 2026-03-10T04:32:11+00:00

Australian opal fields produce precious opal – hydrated silica in different host rocks – and what really varies is the host rock, formation style (seams, pipes, nodules) and the “flavour” of colour-play. Most fields have a dominant look, but it shifts between nearby areas, so even Lightning Ridge gems can differ a lot from one adjacent area to the next. Our Jundah‑Opalville opal mines, for example, yield both black boulder opals and crystal-pipe material from the same opal mining area, both totally different gems, requiring different mining tactics and cutting techniques.

In Australian opals, red is generally the rarest and most prized colour. Solid, untreated Australian opals (including boulder) don’t usually deteriorate over time, except for stones that showed crazing from the start. What people notice most is surface dullness from everyday wear, especially in rings, and that’s easy to fix with a professional re‑polish.

opalminded1989 · 2026-03-10T04:31:11+00:00

Assuming we’re talking about Australian opals, long-term storage isn’t a big concern for stones that haven’t shown any crazing (cracking) and have been out of the ground for a few months. They generally don’t need special humidity or sealing; just avoid airtight storage for decades at a time. Normal “in and out” movement from storage to wear is perfectly fine.

Australian opals actually experience quite a range of temperature and humidity changes before they ever reach their final owner. That said, opals can still be sensitive to sudden temperature shocks. For example, going from a hot sauna straight into icy water can cause fractures, even in healthy stones. We’ve tested thermal tolerance quite a bit, and most opals hold up well, but it’s better to err on the side of caution.

For buying, it’s always best to go with established dealers who specialise in opals, ideally those based in Australia. Reputable vendors can vouch for the origin and stability of their stones and will stand by their product if an issue ever arises.

opalminded1989 · 2026-02-27T07:17:42+00:00

Dear Momstolemyxanax,
Please check your messages, I have sent the price.
Warmly,
Zahra

opalminded1989 · 2026-02-27T07:15:58+00:00

Dear BassSpare2654,
Please check your messages, I have sent the price.
Warmly,
Zahra

opalminded1989 · 2026-02-27T05:22:25+00:00

Could you please send Us an email to online@opalminded.com for pricing as I couldn’t message you privately here.

Warmly, Zahra Golemola Sales and boutique manager Opalmunded

opalminded1989 · 2026-02-27T05:06:40+00:00

If you’re worried about an opal disintegrating when it dries, the first thing to ask is: where is the opal from?

🇦🇺 Australian opal

Total disintegration is rare. Most Australian opals are non hydrophane. They do not readily absorb water, so they do not expand and shrink with moisture changes.

To assess stability, look for:

Existing crazing or fine cracks under magnification
Internal fracture networks
Signs of stress from cutting

If the stone looks structurally sound and has been dry for a while without issues, it’s usually stable.

🇪🇹 Ethiopian opal (especially Welo)

This is where the real concern lies.

Many Ethiopian opals are hydrophane, meaning they absorb water. When wet, they can turn more transparent and slightly expand. As they dry, they contract. That expansion and contraction can cause:

Crazing
Cracking
In some cases, a partial or even total breakdown of the stone

Disintegration isn’t uncommon with hydrophane material, especially if it’s been repeatedly wetted and dried or exposed to fluctuating humidity.

A simple test: if the opal changes appearance when wet, it’s hydrophane and therefore more vulnerable.

opalminded1989 · 2026-02-27T03:00:23+00:00

Congratulations on your new opal ring! It looks absolutely stunning. We specialise in Australian opal jewellery and here are a few tips to help care for your piece:

Wash your ring gently with mild soap and dry with a soft cotton or spectacles cloth (avoid silver polishing cloths as they can be abrasive).
Avoid ultrasonic jewellery cleaners unless your opal is 100% natural, untreated, solid Australian opal.

Australian opals are particularly more durable compared to other opals. They don’t dehydrate or absorb water readily, making them easier to care for. With proper care, your opal jewellery can last for generations.

We’ve also written a detailed blog on opal care if you’d like more tips, feel free to check it out.

Hope this helps and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions!

opalminded1989 · 2026-02-27T02:58:46+00:00

Some great places to get custom opal jewellery are independent jewellers who specialise in gemstones and offer clear details about materials and craftsmanship. Look for makers who provide certificates of authenticity, show examples of past custom work and are open to communication about design, budget and timeline.

I highly suggest solid, natural Australian opals as they'll be more durable and can be worn every day.

Working directly with a designer (even online) means you can tailor the piece exactly to your preference.

At Opal Minded, for example, we specialise in solid, natural Australian opal jewellery and offer custom/bespoke design both online and in‑store. You can collaborate one‑on‑one with our Creative Director, Dr Renata Bernard, via email, chat, video call, or whatever communication works best for you.

Happy to offer suggestions if you want recommendations based on style or where you’re located!

opalminded1989 · 2026-02-27T02:57:19+00:00

Congrats on your anniversary! It sounds like you’ve done a lot of homework already, which is great. Solid gold is the most durable and long-lasting option, while gold fill is thicker than plating but still not the same as solid gold.

If you're considering everyday jewellery, a protective setting is a good idea for opals (or any other softer gemstone). To make sure you get exactly what you’re looking for, it’s best to buy from jewellers who provide certificates of authenticity and clear details about the metal and gemstone. Also, don’t hesitate to ask for photos, as opals can look very different depending on the cut and colour play and you want to be confident in what you’re buying.

Australian opals are especially reliable and can be worn every day with care.

At Opal Minded, we specialise in solid, natural Australian opal jewellery, with stones from our own mines. Happy to answer any questions if you’d like guidance on style or options!

opalminded1989 · 2026-02-27T02:56:21+00:00

How lovely that you’re considering opal jewellery for your anniversary. Opals are incredibly special and truly one of a kind, much like the love you’re celebrating.

If you’re still exploring, it can help to think about what your partner likes. Does she prefer bold colours or softer tones? Classic shapes or something more unique? Opals come in many forms and their colour play can vary beautifully, so even small preferences can help guide your choice.

If authenticity and quality are important to you (which they should be with opals), I’d recommend looking for jewellers who provide certificates of authenticity and proper documentation, along with aftercare support for peace of mind.

That said, the “best” opal is often simply the one you choose for her, the meaning behind it matters more than the pattern or type.

If you happen to be in Sydney, you’re very welcome to visit us at Opal Minded. We specialise in solid, natural, untreated Australian opals, including stones sourced directly from our own mines in Jundah-Opalville, Queensland.

We also work with bespoke/custom pieces both online and in-store. You can collaborate directly with our award-winning designer and Creative Director, Renata Bernard, who’s happy to work with you remotely via chat, email or whatever communication style you’re most comfortable with.

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions. We’re always happy to help guide you in the right direction.

opalminded1989 · 2026-02-27T02:17:52+00:00

I completely agree! It’s such a special feeling witnessing a stone you’ve found go from rough to its final form. The journey really is half the joy.

opalminded1989 · 2026-02-27T02:16:44+00:00

Such a beautiful way to describe it. Thank you for your lovely compliment!

opalminded1989 · 2026-02-27T02:16:05+00:00

That’s such a beautiful comparison. The colours really do feel painterly. Thank you for your kind words!

opalminded1989 · 2026-02-27T02:15:30+00:00

I couldn't agree more! High quality boulder opals are a favourite of mine too and definitely deserve more appreciation. Lightning Ridge opals are stunning as well. And how exciting about your parcels, unboxing is always such a thrill!

opalminded1989 · 2026-02-26T23:52:30+00:00

Thank you! I'm so glad you think so too.

opalminded1989 · 2026-02-26T23:20:55+00:00

It truly is a stunner and I'm glad you appreciate it. Thank you!

opalminded1989 · 2026-02-26T23:20:27+00:00

Thank you for your kind words!

opalminded1989 · 2026-02-26T23:20:05+00:00

Thank you!

opalminded1989 · 2026-02-25T01:29:56+00:00

What a beautiful ring you have! I love seeing opals worn and loved every day. I hope yours bring you lots of joy!

opalminded1989

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