Identifying Australian Opals: Appraisal & Authenticity
Question
Opal bracelet
Hi,
I was given this antique bracelet this past Xmas by my father-in-law. What I do know about it is that he purchased it in an antique store in NZ (which is where they live) about 20 yrs ago. He was told at that time that it was very old, contained opals (which he suspected were Australian) had diamonds and was set in gold. My question is how do you know if they are indeed Australian or not? I did leave it for an appraisal today but won't hear back from them for a few days. What I was told today when I dropped it off was that the diamonds were tested and are real and an very old cut style. The style and workmanship of the gold in the bracelet was very well done and showed it to be a very old piece. She said the opals were of superior quality and she also suspected them to be Australian in origin. Is there any way of telling them from opals of other areas?
AnswerHi Connie , Nice bracelet ! , They look very Australian .It is my guess without seeing them up closer that they may be from Andamooka South Australia . This field is no longer productive . But in its hey day produced beautiful blue green crystal opals unmatched by opal from anywhere else , although some opal of this colour does come from Coober Pedy South Australia .If they were older they would be whiter in colour and from white cliffs in NSW. but these I would say without doubt are from Andamooka. Hope that helps . regards Rod Keady www.keadyopals.com
