Jewelry
Handcrafted Sterling Silver & Boulder Opal Earrings & Necklace Set
- Item Number
- 174
- Estimated Value
- 630 USD
- Sold
- 400 USD to billmaloy
- Number of Bids
- 3 - Bid History
Item Description
Boulder opal, first discovered in Quilpie, in Western Queensland in about 1870, is found embedded in ironstone boulders. The opal usually forms as thin veins within these boulders, and most stones are cut to include some of the host ironstone matrix. Boulder opal is sometimes referred to as opal in matrix for this reason. Boulder opal is especially attractive because, like the black opal, it has a dark body tone which adds vibrancy to the play of color. Boulder opal also has a higher density because of the ironstone content, and can be more durable as well. Because water content within the opal is very low it almost never cracks or crazes as it ages. Hardness ranges between 5.5 and 6 on the Mohs scale. Due to the thin nature of the opal veins which form in the ironstone boulders, it is often impossible to cut domed cabochons in most boulder opal stones. The stones are therefore usually cut into free form, irregular shapes to maximize the size of the stone and minimize the loss of opal. The sterling silver setting for this offering shows off the opals' colors and style most effectively. The opal is the official October birthstone as adopted by the American National Association of Jewelers in 1912.
Item Special Note
Local pickup or buyer pays shipping and insurance. Unless delivered outside CA, 7.25% CA sales tax will be added to final price.
Donated By:
Music + Nature = Mendocino stores data...
Your support matters, so Music + Nature = Mendocino would like to use your information to keep in touch about things that may matter to you. If you choose to hear from Music + Nature = Mendocino, we may contact you in the future about our ongoing efforts.
Your privacy is important to us, so Music + Nature = Mendocino will keep your personal data secure and Music + Nature = Mendocino will not use it for marketing communications which you have not agreed to receive. At any time, you may withdraw consent by emailing Privacy@frontstream.com or by contacting our Privacy Officer. Please see our Privacy Policy found here PrivacyPolicy.