The rollercoaster of a high-risk rough opal piece

[@veggiesarefruits]

Justin, that is SUCH a beautiful stone, though! Just because it's not as big, or black as you expected...doesnt make it a failure. Look at the colors and patterns before you. You said it best: "Let's look on the bright side". Well, you've got a bright side of the stone, staring you in the face. You could have ended up with nothing. It's gorgeous, and you did an amazing job. Truly.

[@johnknoefler]

That's a very sweet gem. There is no failure here. You extracted the very gem that rough had to offer. Too often we get our mind locked into the outcome we want rather than just searching for the actual best possible outcome that presents itself. You did this very well.

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you John

[@idellbrown1825]

I know 2 years ago but that opal is beautiful none the less. Pendant for sure!!

[@leannedavies6163]

You know what, I wouldn't know an opal if I fell on it. And yet every time I see you on my feed I watch the process. You relay your passion like a true artist and you show the good and bad of your discoveries. You and your partner produce a quality vid and you are both great ambassadors for our unique and wonderful country.

[@jawjagrrl]

Would make the most amazing teardrop cabochon style pendant. And at almost 6 carats, still very substantial! Love the big flashes of yellows and orange next to the green.

[@Historynerd42]

Absolutely brilliant. The shape is spectacular, so unique. Never seen an opal cut like that, and after having to cut so much. Should be at least $2500 a CT. Definite win! You are a artist.

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you very much! Thank you so much

[@kellyfoster8903]

This would make a beautiful pendant.😍

[@MaxB6851]

How would you attach the chain?

[@JAKEWJONES]

@@MaxB6851 It needs to be set in a metal pendant.

[@krystalwheeler4656]

I'd love to wire wrap that😍♥️

[@aaronwestbrook9151]

I like this “candle flame” cut opal. Very nice piece.

[@bimmerella]

I love the unique shape this opal wanted to be. Good thing it had Justin there to bring it into the world! If I had an extra 5K laying around, I'd say box her up & send her to me! This stone is perfect for someone who wants something beautiful yet different! You could see this beauty set in a pendant, like a magical jewel around your neck, or a long knuckle to knuckle index finger ring...the possibilities are endless! Well done J! ❤❤❤

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you

[@anneminnick2491]

That one was quite a Challenge ! It did turn out beautifully in spite of all the sand and size loss . You showed us all your great Patience and Persistence . I must say I believe that final shape was the best shape I've seen . Very Elegant and Delicate .

[@wendyspicer8588]

It will be set into a pendant and will be treasured for generations. It is really beautiful. Probably mother to daughter. Antiques Road Show here it comes.

[@marlenehearne5066]

Justin, your magic fingers created a gorgeous piece

[@tootsie3612]

I think it turned out absolutely gorgeous. I love it. Opal is my daughter's, Momma's and MawMaw's birthstone. It's one of my favorite stones for sure. I have a beautiful opal ring I got for a high school graduation gift from my parents back in 1983. It's oval and domed with 3 diamonds on both sides of it set in white gold. I have always treasured it. My daughter will get it one day.

[@debraanchante3661]

This is actually a very beautiful gem.. I think the teardrop shape is very appropriate for this one.. I think it almost made you cry.

[@josevaldez5278]

After so much suffering you got a beautiful rainbow tear, congratulations.

[@davidmueller980]

This should be labeled- man takes palm sized exciting potential and creates teardrop. I saw a dolphin pendant in the making. It wasn’t what you expected but it has some very nice color.

[@lloydbellis7360]

Wow, your patience paid off, genius. And to not lose anything, brilliant. Your are special.

[@Northstardanes]

I love that you follow the natural shape, like a long tear drop, it's stunning and refreshing to see this shape emerge.

[@JoCoyote]

I love these, I’ve been watching for ages but never comment. I like that piece. It kind of makes me think of a compass needle; imagine that spinning to face north and all the colors catching the light.

[@bethz.5358]

There is something poetic about taking away the sandy bits until something beautiful emerges. This shape is so unique and this gem had a lot of ugly bits but a beautiful heart inside. 😍 I like it.

[@elgreco8074]

This really make you appreciate the time, effort, patience, risk, money and energy that goes into this...

[@consentofthegoverned5145]

i would not be disappointed- that's still a thing of tremendous beauty, and you patiently made the best of a challenging piece.

[@ritabeeler4258]

Beautiful gem...you took the time...had the patience...to find the magic buried beneath...fantastic job!! 😊

[@sandmaker]

It was indeed a roller coaster. The final stone was beautiful. You needed a sand wedge to work on it. Keep the great information coming. We love seeing your smiling face. Be happy, safe and stay healthy. 😷⚒

[@theresabetaway7775]

You can never stop learning ,Without Bod and Justins teachings 👍👌🙏

[@D-me-dream-smp]

So much skill and knowledge you have. The shape compliments the stone.

[@splatterize]

Shape reminds me of a fishing lure. My mom would love it.

[@66hobgoblin81]

What a pleasure to watch a true artist at work. I was on that roller coaster there with you & at one point I wanted to grab my metal rust & paint removing "sand blaster " & "zap" that bloody sand away for you. I think you created a beautiful "pendant" opal which highlighted the full spectrum of colours that were in that stone. That shape is reminiscent of many of the early Victorian era emerald necklaces of that time. Ya got me Justin, I'm subscribing.

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you 66

[@jeffwomack5821]

Every time I watch you do this I feel like I'm watching you put money in a paper shredder. The final product is always amazing.

[@blackopaldirect]

But by losing color for a perfect gem you get more $$ than non perfect gem

[@jeffwomack5821]

@@blackopaldirect I understand why you do it I just wouldn't have the nerve for it. You do some beautiful and skilled work.

[@kennethconnors5316]

can only imagine what an amazing necklace it would be

[@blackopaldirect]

True that Kenneth

[@HectorGarcia-gj4hl]

Hello Justin, thank you for the video, I am an emerald cabochon cutter here in Colombia and was amazing not only for the frustration with the stone, which frecuently happen here, but also for the feelings those stones generates, we share this challenging cases. On other hand I love your t-shirt, regards

[@jackstander4519]

One of the BEST videos so far! [imo] I really enjoy this longer kind of vid as the sound of the grandmaster's voice + the soft grinding of the wheel is BLISS!! 10/10

[@blackopaldirect]

Thanks Jack I appreciate the compliment

[@mphmph1198]

If what doesn't kill you makes you stronger, then where are my super powers! Another excellent episode.

[@Catherine-hf6zc]

Agonizing! But that stone gave you exactly what you could actually see, plus the roller coaster ride. Reminds me of an old boyfriend.

[@blackopaldirect]

Hahaha nice

[@garymorgan8915]

It's beautiful, glad you got your money back, not a total loss, that profit fairy will come around lol.

[@blackopaldirect]

It will in time

[@donnaarmenia2062]

Keep going

[@donnaarmenia2062]

You can do it

[@donnaarmenia2062]

I am so sorry but can get something

[@Asher-Sky]

That's one of my favorite gems. The struggles are more than the rewards but at the end it's still unique, beautiful and gift🙏👍

[@songbirdscreations-MargaretS]

That turned out to be a beautiful stone! I love the shape. It would make a great necklace!

[@annetteku1]

I love that final gem.. shape and Color and the whole dramatic jurney through the dessert of sand. 😅👏💚

[@doctormix71]

Thanks so much for sharing this more difficult and frustrating cut! I was so sorry to see you frustrated and disappointed; however, if it’s any consolation, I thought it was spectacularly beautiful, and one of my favorite stones I’ve seen you cut so far !!!🙌🏼🤩🙏🏼😊

[@lauriewind6366]

Oh I love this piece, it's so special ! Although you had a rough time with it, it turned out beautiful. So sad I never could afford it.....BUT as I worked as a goldsmith I had a chance to get a piece of rough opal with a small vein in it and all the time I see you cutting I would love to get on a machine like yours to see whats in it. I love this kind of work - is that crazy??? Can watch you for hours! Thanks sooo much for filming the process of opal cutting. Much love from Austria

[@nancycurtis7315]

That is a gorgeous result and at least, not at a monetary loss. Great narrative too. Thank you. 👍

[@shelleysteward3041]

I was feeling your emotional roller coaster ride as well but I was amazed at the beauty you ended up with.

[@mervynpatterson7164]

You are working with nature mate,she threw you a curve ball to test your resolve.I personally think it’s a stunning work of nature and some lady is gonna be very happy to wear it.well done you.

[@G.G.8GG]

"Not too bad," because of your skill. Beautiful!

[@PGT96drvr]

Hell with the gem. Your words of cherishing what you have and not taking life for granted - all of your quotes... Who knew I'd find inspiration from an opal video. Thank you.

[@Luther777Williams]

What a beauty! Way to make the most out of it Justin. I love your message with a less than ideal cut... make the most of what you have every day. : )

[@topcat8839]

Wowsers!!! I love these sort of videos. Only through Justin's expertise and experience, a gem was cut. This video proves again how your a master in your field, and the years of experience shine through. Thank you for sharing Justin and thank you Black Opal Direct. Your not too humble to show the not so great gems, although in the end this one was a winner. Until next week..........

[@gailarmstrong2167]

I have been watching for 4 hrs..now. Love what you are doing. memories. We used to sell in quartzite.

[@danagoodall1410]

I think it is exquisite. Even though it's not what you wanted, there are so many beautiful colors and the teardrop shape turned out perfect. It would be a beautiful necklace !!

[@louyeo6571]

You managed to turn out a lovely stone - in fact, as you were talking about it you said what was going through my mind, it’s pleasing. I like the shape of it, very nice drop. Well done Justin!

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@AnnaBanana-tg9ut]

I love the shape of it, a lot😍🤩

[@steveb437]

nooo justin i love it when you call it a torch plz dont stop!

[@blackopaldirect]

Hahaha ok

[@seaniman4921]

Actually my favorite one I’ve seen you cut so far!!!

[@JustMine4now]

Even though I could feel your disappointment from here lol, I love that you are still light-hearted about it and find a way to look at the bright side. It's really nice to watch someone who can show you the downs along with the ups but doesn't let it change how they act, it's a very good example that you set for those watching you! P.S. The stone still turned out BEAUTIFUL! Loved it!

[@longlowdog]

As someone who shies away from from the conventional and likes but does not love the regular opal shapes I have to say that that stone is one of the most enchanting pieces of opal I've seen cut on KZbin to date.

[@blackopaldirect]

Awww wow thank you

[@WwHalo2wW]

It’s the shape of the tears you almost cried cutting it! 😂 It turned out gorgeous!! I’m so glad you didn’t give up and kept cutting, the sand put up a fight but it didn’t beat you

[@blackopaldirect]

Haha true

[@iseeyou736]

Another enjoyable video, another beautiful stone😊

[@blackopaldirect]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@zxoickszx4422]

Justin, that is a little beauty of a stone! Lovely - Great Job!!

[@GeoBoots]

I realize this is an old video but goodness did this one turn out gorgeous! 😍 What a beauty! ❤️

[@morganh9200]

Whew! What a ride! Whoever buys it will have no idea of what you went thru! & it will make a beautiful pendant.... the colours are really nice!

[@TheSpaniel1]

After watching this I have a quote ( not sure if it is a quote but I’m claiming it as one!), “ never doubt a true craftsman”. Stunning work and a beautiful gem to treasure. Thank you 👍

[@danrogers9945]

Just found your channel few months ago! And absolutely love it! Love watching you cut these beautiful stones! This was a fun one!thanks for sharing! God bless!

[@cgl503]

Failed expectations is healthy life fiber. I like the thought. I liked the production of the clip. The voice-over thoughts were nice. I'm ready for the documentary. Maybe a single stone that goes farm to market.

[@debbiefox6846]

I applaud you for your patience Justin. Seemed very frustrating but I love how you didn't just throw in the towel & toss it in the sand jar. When life hands you sand you still managed to make stunning opal. True mark of an expert with the patience & restraint you showed. Love the shape as well. 👏👏👏💚💙🧡💛❤️

[@RodEubank]

I have been watching your videos a few weeks now. I love watching you work. 🙂

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you welcome aboard

[@ravenmoon1165]

I know you were hoping for a huge stone, but I love the tear drop. It's lovely. It would make for a great pendant or even bracelet piece. You made lemonade. Smiles

[@AurouraB4327]

Absolutely love the end product ❤️ different shape and quite pleasing

[@debbieward9732]

It’s very pretty and your patience is admirable.

[@EvelynPic]

The most gorgeous flop I’ve ever seen. Thank you for taking us through the polishing stage. ❤️

[@blackopaldirect]

Glad you like it! I agree

[@nancypiros9133]

Crazy roller coaster ride alright! But, takes a fine artist to not throw in the towel and keep focused and carry on! What a beautiful piece in the end. It would look fantastic in a necklace horizontal!

[@SuperRodriguez2005]

Beautiful! The shape and pattern of the play of color flash brings to mind a Betta fish or a fancy Koi fish!

[@slackerman9758]

Such a gorgeous shape! May all your rollercoasters end so well. 😀

[@blackopaldirect]

Haha True

[@stackedcollectors]

Best video yet! Love this! Do more high risk!!!

[@blackopaldirect]

More to come! and prob not by choice lol

[@gaylesanders936]

So beautiful. First time to watch you find the hidden beauty of a stone. I’m fascinated watching you! Thank you!

[@evanalian]

Great looking color. Hope it cleans up good.

[@vicky_webcatuk]

Its a very pretty stone, if i was given a ring with that id be absolutly over the moon. You really made the best of it!

[@pemakarpoinformationgesund2452]

I like this form and such elegance with the colours!

[@lladnarkram9563]

Lovely colour, great shape , you uncovered a beautiful gem.

[@YuetLingNg]

It's still very beautiful with all the inflections of colour in it! At every turn, you see a flash of brilliant undertones!

[@bonniesmith9996]

The stone determined the shape and size of the gem you have achieved. Like dancing, sometimes you lead and sometimes you follow. Beautiful stone.

[@blackopaldirect]

True that

[@annakeye]

Emotional roller coaster; indeed! You bought the ticket and you were full of excited potential, then it was "wtf?" Then it was, "hope" and then, well, you get the point. You lived it after all. As did I and I imagine most of we viewers. Personally Justin, I love that drop effect and think it would make an amazing pendant, brooch or even a single earring for the right person. I love the lessons we learn watching you even if they cause you some anguish. Though breaking even is better than not. Obviously.

[@beth-rg8bm]

Beautiful as always!

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you! 😊

[@lonewolf1401]

Fantastic video Justin it had me on the edge of my chair all that time

[@lauralee5644]

Justin it's still really fabulous 😍 and I know it tested your patience and you endured in a very awesome and creative way! I saw red flash as you worked it on your wheel! What a reveal you made of this gem.

[@alexxenaosas2416]

It's beautiful Justin - I love it , great work even if it wasn't what you expect !

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@AnnaBanana-tg9ut]

I'm sorry, I think this is the coolest shape and one of the nicest shapes you've ever done on a stone and the color patterns are cool

[@donnamacadams560]

Really enjoyed this video. Glad you didn't lose. The finished stone was stunning. Great work.

[@Camstro80]

That piece is as unique as you are, amazing and beautiful stone. Thank you for sharing the whole experience.

[@Benny_painter]

Ended up with an interesting shape and some lovely colours in it! Glad you didnt loose out on it. I think we were all expecting a bright monster at the start!

[@tomedginton272]

That 90 grit wheel is a beast, you can see little lumps flying off of the stone. It must be so easy to overdo it.

[@landrion7]

Your skill at cutting is what saved this from a total loss still a beautiful gem good job

[@redeyestones3738]

Not even a trained eye could find the edge of my seat.

[@stanleydolan5609]

Even in rough form, absolutely stunning, great lighting. Looks like stressful work where “ops “! wouldn’t want to be heard,as same in a operating room.

[@margaretlynch1494]

I see a beautiful teardrop necklace for some lucky person! Love it!

[@brandypresley1869]

Id buy it with the sand in it! Adds to its natural character

[@blackopaldirect]

at $5000 :-)?

[@brandypresley1869]

Yes!!!! Sure would! Lol.

[@AngelaEmmerson]

I liked the ocean look and all the fish in it. I even seen a fisherman with a rod at one part of it..❤

[@patriciablue2739]

Beautiful. Thank you for posting.

[@brandonringstad]

Wow! That was such a unique piece! I loved it! Thanks for the ride! Thanks for pushing forward

[@joolzdb]

I think this is one of my favourites tbh, I absolutely love the shape!!!

[@fredrikzels2637]

A very nice piece. That was what it was made to be. Not what you wanted, but that's opal, it's natural. Well done!!

[@TreYay83]

Sorry it didn't turn out to be that mega carat stone. But boy, that thing would be an absolute beautiful pendant!