Welcome to opalholicsanonymous.com where opal season lasts forever.

And so it begins,......

The detail in that extended wing is gorgeous. This one's going to be really something, and I'm looking forward to seeing how it turns out.

Rough cut


Not happy with tail and head yet, but has to wait till next weekend. So its sanding for the rest of the week.
Also, dont know yet what to do with the material in front. Should be utilized as a bail, but undecided as to eventual shape.

I'm loving it Kurt, and the tail looks fine to me, although not seeing it in hand I can't see what you do. I love the detail in the feathers, and look forward to seeing your solution for the bail.

I usually dont like that kind of pietersite! Completely void of yellow, and red has hardly any chatoyancy, yet perfect for this project. OK, I think I'm done with the cutting. Now back to sanding. Found a way to hide hole for cord at the back of the head. Should be done soon. Looks like there is a second bird sitting on the blue moon

That's so pretty Kurt, and you'll have to show us how you managed to place the cord hole so it's invisible.

You've got a home run here Kurt!

Went to the cabin today, so no chance to polish or take proper pictures.
Nevertheless, took the bird for a ride to see how it wears.
Quick selfie, gives you a better idea where the hole is.

OK, polish done. Will revisit with toothpick in the future as there are some grooves that remain as a blemish.

Here is the hidden hole, allowing wearing sideways as well as straight on (balance on both).

Should I ever have the money, that hole can be used as additional fixturepoint for setting without hindering design.
Here some quick pictures

Will try to get better ones when walking the dogs this afternoon.

Ready to fly....



On to the next piece, Australian black jade again for a change...