Queensland Boulder Opal is mined in the desert regions of the state of Queensland in Australia centered mainly around the towns of Winton and Quilpie. As is implied by the name the opal is found in or nodular or boulder ironstone formations, in vertical and horizontal cracks, which are cut open to see what gems lay hidden within the stone. Colors may vary dramatically and can include red, orange, green, blue, purple and just about any combination of colors you can imagine.

Typically the opal is very thin so cabochons are cut with the ironstone as a natural backing. Not only does this mean that every piece is unique but it also explains why Boulder Opal is considered the strongest and most stable of all the opals. In some boulders the opal has a tendency to cleave so miners will use that to create split faces which happens when the stone is split in two and produce mirror images. 

Boulder opal doublets are very popular. This is when thin slices of opal are attached to a backing, typically natural ironstone. This makes the stone much less expensive than a solid opal and looks just as good when set in jewelry. It is also possible to find matching pairs or sets which is almost impossible with regular Boulder Opal.

Boulder opal jewelry is beautiful, showing a variety of colors against the dark matrix background. And each piece is one-of-a-kind. They are made into rings, bracelets, and necklaces. 

Boulder Opal is a grounding stone which helps with the transfer of information from spiritual to physical.

It helps in communicating with your guides. It clears the mind of confusion and provides clarity in our physical world. It also enhances well being and healing on the mental and physical plane.

We carry a variety of Boulder Opal, as well as Andamooka Rainbow Matrix Opal, Louisiana Sand Opal, Lightening Ridge Black Opal, Mexican Opal and more.

By Neville Ryan

EarthGallery.com