The Challenges of Cutting a Large Gem Opal Rough

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kjsspot
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The Challenges of Cutting a Large Gem Opal Rough

Post by kjsspot »

Click through to read this amazing story on GIA! I drooled my way through this article.

http://www.gia.edu/gems-gemology/summer-2016-challenges-cutting-large-gem-opal-rough

Image

ABSTRACT

Cutting large gem-quality opal rough poses special challenges not encountered when working with smaller pieces. The author explains the considerations in cutting a 3,019 ct piece of gem-quality white opal that was mined from the Olympic Field in Coober Pedy, South Australia, during the 1950s. Through careful analysis and planning, he was able to extract a single finished gem weighing 1,040 ct, with play-of-color across the entire surface. Named the Molly Stone, it is one of the largest fine gem opals ever cut. This article describes the unique factors involved in maximizing its size and play-of-color.
~KJ~
Mysterious opals contain the wonders of the skies - sparkling rainbows, fireworks, and lightning, shifting and moving in their depths.
ETSY: http://www.etsy.com/shop/KJOFineArt
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SwordfishMining
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Re: The Challenges of Cutting a Large Gem Opal Rough

Post by SwordfishMining »

Thanks for sharing. This hearts for both of you KJ & Pink.
Sedona Drusy cavity in sandstone
Sedona Drusy cavity in sandstone
I'll jump over my shadow. https://www.virginvalleyopal.com"
Opals & more at my ESTY store https://swordfishmining.etsy.com"
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PinkDiamond
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Re: The Challenges of Cutting a Large Gem Opal Rough

Post by PinkDiamond »

Yes, that was way cool KJ, and thanks so much John! I've never seen one like that before. Way cool on both counts. :)
PinkDiamond
ISG Registered Gemologist


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kjsspot
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Re: The Challenges of Cutting a Large Gem Opal Rough

Post by kjsspot »

TY John! But... I hope you looked inside there before sticking any fingers in!
~KJ~
Mysterious opals contain the wonders of the skies - sparkling rainbows, fireworks, and lightning, shifting and moving in their depths.
ETSY: http://www.etsy.com/shop/KJOFineArt
Website: http://www.kjmontoya.com
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SwordfishMining
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Re: The Challenges of Cutting a Large Gem Opal Rough

Post by SwordfishMining »

I did. Lucky we weren't snake bit tho climbing around in back canyon cliff houses.
I'll jump over my shadow. https://www.virginvalleyopal.com"
Opals & more at my ESTY store https://swordfishmining.etsy.com"
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kjsspot
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Re: The Challenges of Cutting a Large Gem Opal Rough

Post by kjsspot »

I was thinking spider!
~KJ~
Mysterious opals contain the wonders of the skies - sparkling rainbows, fireworks, and lightning, shifting and moving in their depths.
ETSY: http://www.etsy.com/shop/KJOFineArt
Website: http://www.kjmontoya.com
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