Opal Valuation Appraisal

Boulder Opal Specimen with Play of Color

This item is a small, irregularly shaped boulder opal specimen, likely unpolished and in its natural or raw state. The dominant color of the host rock, which appears to be ironstone or sandstone, is a light, earthy brown or pale peach. It exhibits a somewhat rough, natural texture with some visible pitting and inclusions on its surface that are characteristic of unworked stone. Embedded within this matrix are several small patches of iridescent opal, displaying a vibrant play of color. Specifically, there are at least two distinct areas where the opal flashes with golden-yellow and possibly green hues when light reflects off its surface. One larger patch is visible towards the top-left, and a smaller, more intensely golden patch is visible towards the bottom-right of the specimen. The size appears to be quite small, likely fitting comfortably within a fingertip, suggesting it might be suitable for a small pendant, an inlay project, or kept as a collector's specimen. There are no visible maker's marks, signatures, or stamps, which is typical for a raw mineral specimen. The condition appears to be good for a natural specimen, with no obvious signs of recent damage or repair, although the inherent rough nature means it possesses natural fissures and irregularities. The specimen’s style is distinctly natural, reflecting geological processes rather than human artistry, and its age is geological. The quality of the opal's play of color in the visible patches is a key indicator of its potential value.