The Massive 959 Carat Opal: A Journey of Cutting and Polishing

⚒️Cutting and polishing large opals, like the 959 carat one featured in the video, can be time-consuming and challenging.

💎The value of a large opal is not solely based on its carat weight, but also on the quality and clarity of the colors it displays.

💰Despite the size of the opal, the profit margin may not be significant due to the presence of potch and the nature of the market.

🔍Identifying treated opals and doublets is crucial to ensure transparency and prevent disappointment for buyers.

🔨Large opals are often transformed into specimens rather than traditional gemstones, as their size makes them impractical for jewelry.

Why is cutting and polishing large opals time-consuming?

—Large opals require extensive cutting and polishing to achieve a smooth and shiny surface, ensuring a high-quality end result.

What factors determine the value of a large opal?

—The value of a large opal is determined by its quality, clarity, and the colors it displays, rather than just its carat weight.

What are the challenges in working with large opals?

—The challenges in working with large opals include the risk of damage, the presence of potch (non-precious opal), and the limited market for such large gemstones.

Why is it important to identify treated opals and doublets?

—Identifying treated opals and doublets is essential to maintain transparency and prevent buyers from being misled or disappointed in their purchase.

What is the purpose of transforming large opals into specimens?

—Due to their size, large opals are often cut into appealing shapes and used as specimens or collectibles rather than being turned into traditional gemstones for jewelry.

00:00Justin introduces the video, highlighting the cutting and polishing process of a massive 959 carat opal from Lightning Ridge.

01:20Justin examines the opal to determine its potential and notes the presence of a color bar.

02:23Since the opal is too big for the initial grinding wheel, Justin decides to slice off sections without color or potch to work on.

03:08Due to impatience, Justin loses some diamonds on the blade while slicing through the opal.

06:36After using various grit wheels, Justin is satisfied with the progress but still unsure about the cleanliness of the color bar.

08:00Justin starts shaping the opal into a pleasing form and discusses the benefits of creating specimens with large opals.

09:57Justin continues the cutting process and highlights the challenges and risks involved in working with large opals.

12:38Justin emphasizes the importance of selling natural opals and avoiding treated or misrepresented gems.