Natural Andamooka opal

[MichaelB]

Hi it’s been many years since I have been here. I was recently given a piece of what I thought was Andamooka treated matrix opal but the stone has a natural dark background and the limestone- sandstone bade is very fine grain. Has had no treatment and polishes close to crystal with no sealing needed. Has any member seen a matrix looks like this before. I have a very special carving planed for this.

[PinkDiamond]

I haven't seen one like it since I've never cut matrix opal, and yes, it's been too long since you were here and I'm delighted you came by to show this and your spectacular jade carving to us. I can't wait to see what you do with this one! And tell Margie we said hi.

[SwordfishMining]

Yes Ive seen really hard matrix that solution would not sink into. It just needed polished. As far as that cute pattern in it, NO.

[crazy8s]

Looking forward to seeing it finished.

[MichaelB]

Thanks. It polished easily and needs no sealing. No pitting.I was told it could be oolite opal. It has little black and brown spheres in it.