Australian Crystal Opal
Browse our selection of natural Australian crystal opal. These solid gemstones are famous for their clear transparency. When light passes directly through the stone, it reveals bright internal flashes of red, green, and blue. Every piece in our collection is completely natural and untreated. We primarily source our clear opals directly from the legendary mining town of Lightning Ridge, with occasional select pieces from Coober Pedy. These high quality stones are perfect for setting in custom jewelry. Explore our range below to find the perfect gemstone for your collection and enjoy secure worldwide shipping.
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What Is Australian Crystal Opal?
Australian crystal opal is a type of precious solid opal that is completely clear or semi transparent. Unlike other varieties, it does not have a dark ironstone or potch backing. Because light travels directly through the silica structure, the internal colors appear to float brightly inside the clear gemstone.
Where Is Our Crystal Opal Mined?
Our collection primarily features crystal opal mined in Lightning Ridge, New South Wales. While this town is universally famous for black opal, it also produces exceptional quality crystal opal. We also occasionally offer beautiful pieces sourced from Coober Pedy in South Australia. The Gemological Institute of America confirms that Australia is the leading global source for these natural solid opals.
The Beauty of Black Crystal Opal
Because we focus heavily on Lightning Ridge, many of our stones are classified as black crystal opals. These gems have the same clear transparency as standard crystal opal but feature a slightly darker body tone. This darker base creates a stunning visual contrast, making the internal flashes of color stand out even more brilliantly.
How to Choose a Crystal Opal
When choosing your gemstone, pay attention to the level of transparency and the brightness of the internal colors. Stones that are perfectly clear with strong red and orange fire usually have a higher value. Since they are transparent, these opals look incredible in open jewelry settings that let light enter from the sides and the back. We encourage buyers to read our guide on how to set crystal opals to understand optimal backing methods.
Care and Viewing Advice
Solid opals have a hardness of five to six point five on the Mohs scale, meaning they need gentle care. Clean your stone using warm water and a soft cloth. Do not use harsh chemical cleaners. To see the brightest colors, view your opal under natural sunlight.
Why Buy From Opal Galaxy?
Every gemstone we sell is a 100 percent natural Australian solid opal. We offer transparent pricing, which may be below independent appraisal values. We also provide purchase protection through our best price guarantee and offer digital or physical gemologist certificates via our opal certificates page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is crystal opal?
Crystal opal is a natural precious opal that is clear or semi transparent. It does not have a dark host rock backing, which allows light to pass right through the stone and illuminate the bright internal colors.
Where is crystal opal mined?
Our primary source is Lightning Ridge, New South Wales, which produces high quality clear and black crystal opals. We also occasionally source beautiful stones from Coober Pedy.
What is a black crystal opal?
A black crystal opal is a clear gemstone that has a slightly darker translucent body tone. This darker base naturally amplifies the brightness of the color play inside the stone.
Is crystal opal a solid stone?
Yes, every crystal opal in this collection is a natural solid gemstone. It is cut directly from the rough material and never treated or glued together like an artificial doublet opal.
How do you clean crystal opal?
Clean your solid opal carefully using only warm water, mild soap, and a soft cloth. You should avoid harsh chemicals or sudden temperature changes to protect the natural clarity of the stone.