Choosing Australian Opals: A Guide for Travelers

Question
Can you tell me what to look for when selecting an Australian Opal?  I am traveling to Australia soon and would like to know what to look for?

Answer
Hi Kristin, your budget will determine what you can afford . Then there are solids , doublets ( two piece) , triplets ( 3 piece)  white , black , boulder opals. White is usually from South Australia Black the most expensive is from Lightning Ridge, Boulder from Queensland. I would suggest a boulder they are well priced , strongest  properties of all opal. They also show infinite variation. Boulder opal is a vein cut with the host rock , it looks like a natural doublet ..but this is normal .most common colours are blue green , if you can see something with orange  ,reddish ,,these are rarer. you can pay $50 - $5k for a nice boulder  , but once again they are strong and so setting them is not a problem .many retailers claim they buy direct from the mines ...blah blah ...I wouldn't be too concerned unless your spending a few grand , then you should see an opal  cutter or shop around as prices vary tremendously . Really only you will know the opal that turns you on  as they say beauty is in the eye of the beholder..good luck. cheers Rod  www.keadyopals.com