Frequently Asked Questions

What type of opal do you deal in?

We deal exclusively in high quality, solid and natural Australian Opal. We primarily deal in Boulder Opal from Queensland, however, we have experience buying and selling all types of Australian opal stones. We do not deal in opal sourced from outside Australia and we do not deal in doublet, triplet, synthetic or treated opal stones.  

What is the difference between your opal stones and doublet or triplet opal stones?

We only deal in solid, natural opal stones. Doublets and triplets are man-made opal gemstones that attach a slice of opal gem to a synthetic backing or topper. As such, doublets and triplets are traditionally lower value stones as they are not 100% natural in origin.

 Do you offer a purchase guarantee? 

We are confident in our stones and their quality, and as such any stone that you are not satisfied with due to cracking, crazing or flaws that occur over the life of the stone due to natural stone processes, we will attempt to replace like for like up to the original purchase price of the stone to the best of our ability. Opals are by their very nature a unique gemstone, and therefore a perfect replica is unlikely, however we will try to match carat weight, colour and pattern as best as possible should the need arise. We are extremely careful with the opals we deal in to avoid issues such as cracks or crazing, and all our opals are free from these flaws at time of sale. Each individual opal may have unique characteristics such as flecks of ironstone in the face of the stone, but this is indicative of a natural inclusion and not a flaw of the stone itself. Our purchase guarantee does not extend to damage or cracking of the opal stone due to fault of your own or through the setting process.

Do you make opal jewellery?

Troy is an opal cutter by trade and is not a jeweller. His skill lies in preparing the stone to be set by a jeweller into a beautiful piece of jewellery for you to enjoy. If you are in need of jeweller recommendations to create your new opal piece,  Troy has a list of trusted, exceptional Australian opal jewellers he can provide contact details of. Opal is a tricky stone to set into jewellery and as such we recommend you use a jeweller who is skilled in setting this particular gemstone.

What is your shipping policy?

We ship nationally within Australia as well as internationally at buyer request. Postal insurance is included as a policy to each parcel shipped due to the high value of the stones for sale. Please get in touch for a shipping cost estimate. 

How do I care for my opal stone?

Opal is a very delicate gemstone and is easily damaged unless due care is taken to preserve it. Australian opal is safe to be immersed in water. We recommend due care when selecting a jeweller to set your opal stone given the delicate nature of the stone compared to other gemstones.

@RaffertyOpals