Varying types of Opal are found at many locations throughout Australia. Generally grouped around the great Artesian Basin or what is commonly referred to in earlier times as the inland sea. Popular locations are in South Australia, Queensland and New South Wales. There is opportunity in each state for the avid or casual fossicker; or in opal circles the term "Noodling" is used instead of fossicking. Queensland Boulder Opal
Opal Fields in Queensland stretch in a north-westerly direction from the New South Wales border at Hungerford through Yowah, west of Cunnamulla, Longreach and Winton to Kynuna a distance of approximately 1000 kilometres. Two main fields are attractive to fossickers, these are Yowah and Opalton. Black Opal Country - Lightning Ridge NSW Lightning Ridge is an outback Town that has its origins in the Opal mining activities in and around the district. It is renowned for its precious Black Opal and is sought after throughout the world. Other popular fossicking fields are Grawin and White Cliffs located in New South Wales. |
to sudden or extreme changes in temperature or humidity. Loss of water causes loss of iridescence; therefore, oiling the stone will reduce water loss. You should also avoid contact with detergents which tend to dry out the water within the opal.