Australian Black Matrix Opal - The Truth Revealed

The gemstone, Andamooka Matrix opal usually treats well. The result of good treatment is a totally black background, allowing the color (that is difficult to see in an untreated stone) to be seen.
In this video, I use 3 pieces of Andamooka matrix opal. One is made into an opal arrowhead. One other is "Gem Matrix opal," matrix opal that shows good color without having to be treated. The third is ordinary matrix opal.
I demonstrate the steps in treating matrix opal, first treating it in concentrated sugar solution and then with concentrated sulfuric acid. I am helped by Sheila and my cats and kittens. A Japanese beetle also shown.
The results reveal that some matrix opal (the "gem matrix") does not treat at all, whereas the other opal treated extremely well, producing a stunning 40ct cabochon. In a surprise, the sugar from candy is used instead of the usual can sugar.

[@lizzyhannan3875]

Opals, Humour, Cats, Experiments and Sheila .... I can't get enough of this channel!

[@rabbimantell]

I agree, just started watching this channel. It’s entertaining

[@AdamDickinson97]

I had your daughter as my Dr. not too long ago here in FL. She was the absolute best for not only the help she provided in the hospital, but for mentioning you while I was there! I told her I loved her necklace which she told me you had knapped for her. I also told her about how I like to watch opal videos, and now we’re here! Love to see and learn more about the treatment process. 👍🏼

[@johnsaucerhunter]

I nearly spit out my Tea after watching Sheila help muck out the sugary particulates with her hand. Great episode.. The Emperor is stunning, but all of them are beautiful by their own right.

[@bethc7779]

I’m so excited that you’re extending the giveaway! I usually watch you on my tv and couldn’t leave a comment. I absolutely love your videos, and your opals, of course! Hello from Atlantic City, New Jersey!

[@drew8282]

WOAH the emperor is a very extravagant opal. The color is just exquisite!

[@longlowdog]

What a gem of a video. Guaranteed to make a Friday morning a good one. Regards from Scotland.

[@enkidu9705]

We would never boot you out of the legion of KZbin super heroes. You're the comic relief and the world needs laughs right now.

[@clintstoner13680]

Another fun and entertaining video sir! It always amazes me to see how effortless you make it seem to knap out arrow points from opal. Looking forward to seeing who wins the next round of awesome stones you give away.

[@stopthemuzik7]

Even the opals that didn’t take the treatment look amazing. The Emperor is definitely a beautiful andamooka opal. Thank you for another fun video. Hopefully Sheila feels better. 😂

[@debramoore6318]

Never heard of treating opal with candy/sugar. Love the results.

[@probong2053]

because of u i spent $170 on 53 frogs store. thank u so much for naming your go to. it helped alot in deciding who to buy from.

[@probong2053]

Also I mentioned to 53frogs. You were the deciding factor in my purchase. He said u make him laugh. And he says hi. You guys are the coolest 😎

[@stonzbonesandcollectibles2214]

Lumpy, Rusty, and Rose came out GORGEOUS! I think I like matrix better when it doesn’t go all black. My name is Eva, and I’m an opalholic.

[@andreaspeedy9507]

It just takes a lick😜🌹🌹

[@garyallum402]

At least you admit to it, Eva! That’s the first step! 😆🤣😂😆🤣😂

[@larathecool713]

Hi Eva. I am also an opalholic, I am zero minutes clean.

[@stonzbonesandcollectibles2214]

@@larathecool713 😅

[@ericyang8474]

Never would have I thought anyone would attempt to use candy to treat a gemstone. Very interesting video.

[@ericbeeman8717]

Even the stones that didn't treat still looked great with the light background and slight color but still nothing compared to the last one wow now thats a treat sweet enough to eat

[@studiobrian9163]

Can’t get enough of your content! Opals and cats together, doesn’t get better. Best of luck to Sheila’s recovery 😭

[@chantillychandra]

I love the earthy look of the treated opals. Even if you qualify them as "not taking". Another good video!

[@michellet9881]

Even the stones that 'failed' are unique and colorful! So amazing!

[@flatwater5]

Just picked up three new pieces of rough Ethiopian opal. Can't wait to see what's inside! Thank you for another Master Class on opal. That Emperor piece is beyond beautiful! Would love to see pictures of the finished product!

[@backseatgamer7367]

African opal fades.

[@flatwater5]

@@backseatgamer7367 I don't have ready access to Australian black opal, nor do I have the funds to pursue it. I am happy to work with what I have. I have several Ethiopian opals, and they look great.

[@dionh70]

I'm still marveling at the trial & error that had to have gone into developing the treatment process for Andamooka opal.

[@neworleanswayoflife]

need to get you a lifetime supply of sugar. lol love your arrowheads. your other opals are great too. :)

[@charlottehaworth6455]

Wow that Emperor is amazing beautiful colours and the arrowhead leaves a bit to do desired with its colouring but the rest of them are beautiful.

[@billhatcher2984]

You make knapping those arrow heads look easy I love that you include your cats too

[@henryrroland]

I love your cats. And your work too, but your cats are the real star for me

[@josi4251]

I love the addition of the kitties, along with the usual fascinating opal work!

[@stephenstevens6573]

You are the best!! Your dry comedy is SO refreshing!! Respect!

[@bebbie2ispouringitoutdebra236]

I love your humor and your opals!!! Keep the humor and opals coming! I love it!!!

[@carlosmujica6936]

I cant believe you give away such beautiful stones. Opal is just stunning

[@amielee8610]

I just love your opal skills, humor, and noggin!

[@bobkrug3289]

I am new to cutting opal and I love watching your videos. I have learned a lot and the humor is wonderful.

[@misschatoyance]

New to the channel and new to opals, but I've already learned soo much! Plus, you add adorable kittens and some great humor - my type of place! Thank you for the great information! I'll definitely be tuning in for more kitties, more opals, and more on the saga of Sheila!

[@wonderkat4047]

Always a pleasure watching your cats... and your opal skills!

[@joostlammertsvanbueren1868]

those cats are soooooo cute but nothing is cuter than Sheila (;

[@ashleysewar1104]

Even the ones that didn’t turn out right are still beautiful. It amazes me that you can turn something so ordinary and boring looking into something so beautiful with a little bit of science. Can’t wait to see your next video!

[@bassemamercani3026]

I love the humor it's so well thought out but seems so natural! The cabs turned out really nice too.

[@andieorigami5777]

The Emperor is GORGEOUS, but honestly all of them were great!! I never expected Opal treatment to be so varied!

[@wadewilkirson2444]

Just discovered your channel! It's great and love your cats!!

[@MNCBY85]

The color variations in the emperor are amazing! The blue is mesmerizing. Just found your channel and have been watching every video!

[@raymondmaltby5380]

I am really impressed with your Candy treated opals. We enjoy your videos. Ray and Donna the whole enchilada.

[@oliverthecuriouscatnice2264]

Absolutely love your channel! Hopefully one day I will have my own! Keep up the good work and tell Sheila to stay strong !

[@abysl_]

Your videos are such a treat! My two favorite things, gems and good humor

[@TW-il4vy]

Candy Opals. How creative!!!! The emperor opal is stunning.

[@gerdahuertas26]

Could the ingredients of the candies, have affected the treatment of the opals? The Emperor did turn out amazing! So great to see your new video!

[@512Squared]

That emperor is magnificent - such a rich mix of greens and reds. Loved watching this process.

[@Bisijouxs]

i just stumbled across this channel and ive never been more confused, amused and fascinated at the same time

[@nateroberson766]

I am new to working with opals, and your videos are entertaining and informative. You have perfected the opal-to-cat ratio in your videos! I must also echo other commenters and say that The Emperor is just unbelievably beautiful.

[@charlesteune6416]

That emperor Opal is gorgeous I’ve been watching your show here for a while and you do a lot of amazing fascinating work and I like how you sit there and take the time and let everybody know exactly what you’re doing and when you doing it and I look forward to watching many many many more of your videos in the future. Keep up the great work

[@TheOzka]

I love your humor and looking at beutiful opals.!!!

[@dylanandelmo]

That candy mix looked revolting! So glad you didn't touch it. Thank you again for some beautiful gems.

[@piafinch7537]

Always learn something when I watch your content, and I have a quiet chuckle at the same time 😂

[@benjaminljung3970]

A wonderful channel with wondeful stones! Thanks for great content!

[@kirkcrump353]

No mater what comes your way you can make the drab and boring turn into fantastic works of nature. Thanks for sharing your experience and talent.

[@brianfox2523]

Great vidio as usual. Wishing Sheila a fast recovery. XXX.

[@fallenstudent1103]

Opal arrowheads are interesting. Wondering if you could use those opal flakes for some kind of Cloisonne inlay.

[@dawndippery9277]

I find your videos funny, entertaining, & educational! Keep up the good work!

[@garyallum402]

Howdy! It isn’t too late to win one of those awesome opals? If it’s so, please count me in! I have a lot of papers with secret opal treatment and storage notes and one is for a crockpot used to simmer opals & potch material in saturated sugar water for a week, then the plan called for battery acid and the crock pot was supposed to simmer the rocks for another week! I thought this would ruin the opals if not completely dissolve them! I partially dissolved one caret opal in vinegar! I’m still learning and haven’t tried this whole procedure, yet. I am still gathering equipment and I still need a polisher. My notes include gemstone heat treat techniques. The KitKat angle is completely new to me. Speaking of KitKats, I love the footage of your beauties wrestling and playing! We had two cats here, but we are now down to one. But she is a playful one! I love your content and I’m looking forward to more!

[@ali_yayyy]

Cat cameos and stone cutting?! So thankful I stumbled across your channel ✨🙌🏽

[@Tanker6969]

Great placement of the cats, been watching your videos with my two year old daughter. She loves it!!

[@AwakeAtTheWheel]

I think the candy soup bit was just an excuse to steal Shelia’s dress.😂🍻 Great work as always Colonel!

[@AwakeAtTheWheel]

@@PulitzerOpal Proof that you’re a classy guy. 😉

[@marcbaybut7141]

Only recently discovered this channel and I'm so glad I did. Keep up the good work

[@dannyfromtexas5989]

I was worried that you were not making videos. I had to search your channel to see your videos again. Super nice on the arrow heads.

[@KatyDidRocks]

This is my first visit to your channel - you are hilarious! Thank you for making me laugh while teaching me more about opals.

[@hannagyllensten475]

New to opals since a few weeks and have binge watched your channel now I'm on holiday, love it!!

[@treesandbugs]

Oh man, that candy soup looked pretty gnarly. Your cats are very entertaining!

[@oliverthecuriouscatnice2264]

Your humor is truly amusing!!!! Even the second time around

[@biasithom]

I get so much enjoyment watching your videos, please keep them going.

[@JamesJones-bc3jp]

That last stone was definitely stunning wow great work. Very nice!

[@jianshen2223]

Was binging opal video and your quirky sense of humour caught my eye

[@jianshen2223]

@@PulitzerOpal yes I did. Noted,will send you an email instead

[@Low-C-Laura]

If the opal cutting business ever runs dry you could always fall back on making “sleep story” videos. You have a way with words and one of the more soothing voices I’ve ever heard.

[@jfbaird5239]

Beautiful opals, Opals are so unique, The Arrowheads you make are awesome. Love the channel, Keep up the great work.

[@sharonstange8565]

Love the videos. Colors are incredible 😍Arrowheads are beautiful.

[@thenatinator279]

Another great video! I love this channel! I've been watching for years now.

[@stephenmelrose1082]

Theres some stunning variety there the 2 sided rose is great even without taking the treatment! Glad I found the channel I'll be watching more !

[@edinburghlass5648]

So much fun watching you work, and the emperor was worth it, but always love to see the cats

[@bharperames]

I really like the random cuts to the cats doing goofy things, and of course the opal, can't be beat! Thanks

[@artiiione9996]

The EMPEROR opal is STUNNING…. Well done👍🏽🇦🇺

[@pamelagreen1673]

"Ask a friend"! I do enjoy your humor as much as the opal.

[@BeckieeC]

I just about gasped when you showed Emperor 😱 just wow. That is truly breathtaking. Before your channel I had no idea about andamooka opal but now I’m obsessed!

[@kellyvansoest2923]

Love your videos. They are like ASMR. Plus the bonus of watching you see the opals' inner beauty.

[@BillyT886]

Oh yea, I love the sound when you’re knapping those arrow heads

[@zdrowyzabek6939]

Beautiful opals, as always! It is very satisfying to look how you treat stones, until they become treasures ❤

[@barbaram7844]

Love your work and videos. Beautiful opals

[@Slipknot60]

I love your humor!! enjoy watching your videos!! you Rock Man...those arrowheads you knap are a thing of beauty!!!

[@evanmurphy8531]

I personally loved the beautiful blue/black of the "failed" opal treatment. Even though it was misshapen, it is just captivating. Love your channel!

[@texaslibitina7875]

As usual... I am thoroughly entertained. I love watching and seeing the kitties is such a fun bonus. :) Thank you.

[@rockhoundcustomjewelry]

Thanks for the email back full of wisdom. I'm loving the half treatment opals tho. That lumpy opal is stunning it just needs to be cut. I don't blame you for keeping the big nice opal tho.

[@stevenmcmahon]

I've just recently found this channel and it's great narrator, Opals and a wee bit of slapstick humor and pet videos to boot thrown in, can it get any better! Loving that twangy accent Sir!

[@sboydrocks9412]

The cats alone are worth the visit.thanks for another hilarious lesson in Pulitzer opalology 101.

[@argentux8919]

Good Show, you allways put a smile in my face Old Boy. This is the best way to learn. Could you go more in detail regarding the treadment like time of submersion in glucose and acid please.

[@maiguapa8]

After my trip to the Tucson show this year, I was drawn to Mexican fire opal, I was also in the Australian opal tent and was fascinated by the stone. I think I started watching your channel and subscribed last year but now, I’m so excited whenever you have a new videos. Your opals are exquisite but nothing compares to your humor though. You are indeed so much fun to watch. Those opals are beautiful. It would be lovely if I get lucky 🍀 and be a recipient, keeping my fingers crossed. All the best to you and thank you for sharing these stones .

[@maiguapa8]

@@PulitzerOpal thank you for the reply 😊 and don’t worry about it, I know the process. I’m just putting it out there in the universe because who knows, maybe lady luck will be around for me. Again, more power to you and your lovely opal babies 💕

[@easemailboxes]

I'm overjoyed that youtube finally sent me a video of yours . Hooray!

[@adogaday]

I just found you. This is hilarious. Going to go back and watch all of your back catalogue.

[@CrepitusRex]

Love the work you do. I don't even own any opal yet but watching your videos has educated me. Thanks

[@dylanwilson7673]

Absolutely incredible!!! Loving the magic rocks!!!

[@philhey4239]

Colonel, another great opal video. I see the training of your all cat army is coming along nicely. Soon you will take over the entire opal world. Regards

[@Frog4ever77]

Another interesting video and beautiful opals!

[@connifilteau2678]

Thanks for sharing your Opal adventures with us.....with sugar from candy.....too good. You're quite the knapper, it's great to see how it is done.

[@anthonymcclain6475]

Ty for an amazing video as always.... you're still the most entertaining opal cutter in the business my friend.

[@SanoeUpcountryBoyo]

Can’t believe Sheila was treated that way after all she does for you. Love your videos and have learned a lot.

[@diniahnightshade1111]

I love how the matrix is always a game of chance...though the "failures" are in their own way as gorgeous as the "successes"

[@MHPCollecting]

This channel is amazing! Phenomenal opals, cats and humor! So glad I found this channel 👍😎