Miner parts with a 20yr old piece of rough opal treasure - I cut it!

It's been a very long time since I have had rough opal treasures from the old T-Bone Field in Lightning Ridge. It's known for its incredible Witches Hat nobbys, although this one isn't quite a Witches Hat or a Nobby, it's a little hybrid of its own.
Join me as I navigate my way through this cut, I can tell the colors are going to be spectacular, I just need the sand to behave itself!
Want to read more about the cut, head over to our blog for the write-up - blackopaldirec...
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blackopaldirec...
Thanks for watching :)
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[@Lolloolollool]

What boggles my mind is that some random on the internet feels that they know better than a seasoned opal cutter that consistently demonstrates his ability to turn out killer stones, regardless of the grit wheel he's using. Fantastic cut and final gem as always!

[@blackopaldirect]

lol true Thank you

[@jessicahart2115]

True that...

[@madelynl.5351]

They call them Armchair quarterbacks here in the US.

[@amnoahwielwabbit3837]

Don’t sweat the Small Stuff , ……. it doesn’t really matter ….. , does it ? Mr Random , the mind boggler dude . (😂😂😂😂 Wow ! That is the first time I have EVER said/ wrote “dude” ! I’m too old for that 💩!

[@robertrijkers947]

@@madelynl.5351 over here roughly translated it would be a sideline coach.

[@garypowell4866]

It's an honor to watch a master at work!

[@blackopaldirect]

its an honour to hear you say that. Thank you

[@kathyelliott6051]

you can always tell a master at work some one who loves what they have always done !!! my husband was a diamond setter and his work was Always Amazing ..but diamonds have no fire 🔥 ..💎.

[@TendoyD]

I love the picture of your father in the background, my brother, father, and grandfather and myself were sheet metal workers who were in business for 70 years. Certain pride in generational trades!

[@blackopaldirect]

Yes for sure

[@ChuckHaney]

@@blackopaldirect is that a painting? Who made it?

[@alistairmills7608]

Ditto

[@Castlebravo453]

I have no idea where my sudden obsession with opal came from, and your videos only deepen that obsession! Thanks for everything you teach on here, Justin!

[@blackopaldirect]

Glad you like them! you now have opal fever haha sorry about that

[@sallysaffer9503]

I’m an 80 y/o female who found your site by accident. It’s more than a year that I’ve been observing your very special skill, creative talent and personal insight. I knew nothing about opals prior to seeing your program; but have always enjoyed learning something new and now spend time almost daily watching you work. It is very relaxing, due to your calm, kind and gentle nature. Thank you for the many hours of peace I enjoy watching your videos!❤

[@debbiecahill4130]

I’m not sure how I ended up here but wow I’m a fan for sure. I’ve always thought opals were ‘nice’ but after seeing you peel back the layers (sand etc) to reveal something so beautiful- I’m in awe at the beauty! Watching you work the rough stones to reveal the precious gem hidden inside is addictive and you are a master at what you do. I love listening to you and going on the journey with you in discovering the beauty that lays within. Thank you for sharing your work.

[@christopherbradley4885]

I don’t care what type of wheel you use, I enjoy watching the stone evolve with every pass of the grinder!

[@blackopaldirect]

Lovely words thank you

[@dirkdannowski9701]

I think it is a Special Justin wheel …😅

[@crystalmeier6579]

I sincerely hope you aren't listening to the trolls. They are like the patient who tells his surgeon how to operate. Lol. I appreciate your time, talent, humor and knowledge you put into all your videos. Thank you 😊

[@ARC.475]

Magnificent gem! It's nice to see the opal table again 😍

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@Muscleupsanddangles]

I'm not a geologist, but I'd wager that rock is older than 20 years.😊

[@dramathompson9053]

I think you’re a few million years off!

[@timg6518]

Nice to see your pops in the shop, he gave you a great gift. Every gem brings a smile. Gems last forever and to me you and your pops are gems as well!

[@happybee7725]

Opals have to be one of the most naturally beautiful “stones” on earth. A rough diamond doesnt look particularly stunning but some opals can look stunning more or less straight out the ground

[@blackopaldirect]

Agreed my happy bee friend

[@thelodge7117]

I’m still working on a rough opal I purchased from you. It’s so fascinating each step closer to the color. I’m taking my time because it’s my first try at it. But it’s significant to me because opal is my birthstone and I hosted an AFS sister from Melbourne when I was in high school

[@DAVIDJONES-qb2nw]

It’s nice to see nice thinking on the internet, friendly host and inspiring input , the people of the world need more people like you.😊

[@patriciastanleyshannon7609]

Opal is my favorite stone. Watching you work to bring out the magic of each piece is amazing.

[@patricklarkin4389]

Another beautiful stone Justin, your talent and passion for your craft is inspirational! Thanks again for what you do !

[@blackopaldirect]

My pleasure!

[@Lobster625]

I love the orange in the stone!!!!!

[@kaynef6637]

I have been very sick for the last 2 years Justin , thank you for helping me forget about my problems for a little while . I appreciate you 🥰

[@amnoahwielwabbit3837]

I don’t do the kneeling and praying bit , but, I hope that whatever you have does not cause you too much pain, I also hope you have some lovely caring friends that you share time with you and help you take your mind off your problem . Not knowing your problem , I can only suggest looking at Old Remedies, some things , methods have been discarded for the modern 💊 stuff, when just trying the Witches Brew is better. No I’m not a witch 🧙‍♀️ 🧙 or the husband of a witch (👈🏼 debatable 😂😂) , I’m just not a real rabbit 🐇! 😎 You have my thoughts 💭 and best wishes Kayne, …….. autocorrect kept changing you to Kanye (West) ? 😂😂😂👍🏻 A

[@hookedntanked9709]

Does anybody watch other gemmers? It's funny to me, they are all fully animated and all seem really happy. Loaded with character these guys.

[@320cwmoore]

Over that tekno before the first commercial I was chanting 'he's going in'. the music stopped and he said it perfectly.

[@roymansd6004]

What a beautiful stone! You always make it look so easy. However, I know there's a lot of skill, talent and passion behind each stone you bring to life. Thank you for these videos.

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you very much!

[@vanman0011]

I love the new low bass.... it's nice when people incorporate that in there videos.

[@Soda3000Pop]

I love black opal!

[@lightsaber111161]

Hello Opal ..

[@prydepythons]

Never really appreciate my birthstone for October but now i think its probably ths nicest of all the months

[@songbirdscreations-MargaretS]

It ended up being just as amazing as I had hoped! Great job!

[@bhutjolokia6990]

What a beautiful gem!! Awesome job!!👍😁

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@thomaskrawczynski921]

13:14 this pattern resembles older cartoons that depict a treasure room filled with gold coins and assorted colorful gems scattered about. Truly amazing. Well done.

[@gardengatesopen]

I really enjoyed watching that! Thank You once again for including me in the journey!! ❤️

[@alistairmills7608]

I am an October baby, as such my birth stone is Opal and coincidentally my favourite colours are translucent iridescent colours so watching you Justin cut and polish these stones is a pure joy.

[@angelwhite376]

That a ripper of gem.. The best for a while. Nice size. 👌🏻

[@christinechildress5021]

Wow Justin! What a wonderful gem you have there. Always happy when I get a notification from black opal direct😜

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you glad you enjoy Christine

[@krissielongknife1479]

You did another amazing reveal!!! Thank you for sharing your work. Just beautiful!!

[@normfredriksen1381]

I came in 15 minutes late but I didn't dare scroll forward and take a chance I might miss "I'm going in". Another lovely gem, twenty years in the making.

[@dherman0001]

Someone is about to have 200,000 subscribers!

[@blackopaldirect]

By the end of the day I reckon 😮🤪😵‍💫🤯

[@eddyrussell6250]

with the white on it it looks like mother of pearl

[@PrettyLittleNoShame]

Love the stones, but I really want to see that gorgeous table that you have placed opal into the wood holes at the end of your video. That table is absolutely amazing, stunning 😍

[@melvinroehm821]

The colors are awsome.looks to have every single color in it.

[@ant-1382]

Absolutely identify with the pressure on the wheel, nice and easy, your wheels last longer too. That is a beautiful stone.

[@CarmenShenk]

His one is my favorite so far. 💕

[@chrisblue4787]

Cool painting of your dad!! He lives on in you and your kids my friend. Wow what a nice stone !

[@marlenemeinhard8956]

I have loved opals from the first Opal ring my mom had. It was a 3 opal gem ring, from her great Aunt. Late 1800's. I was mesmerized by the flashing blues, greens, and reds. I had a ring made in my 20's, and picked out a triangular style stone. Had a ring designed with a row of channel set small diamonds underneath it. Just stunning. 10 years after having it, someone stole it. I was heartbroken, and still very sad. I want to buy another opal and have a ring made someday. Or find one in an opal field. My dream. I love your videos, your opal cutting and work is amazing. My sister makes silver jewelry with her huge selection of turqouise she cuts and makes cabochons, plus and sells. I as well make wire wrapped rings, pendants, and more. I love all aspects of it.😊

[@jacruick]

Ohhhhh Lordie ! So beautiful ! !

[@ІванЯчечак]

Always my heart skip a beat when you remove the opal from the wax with that knife😅😅😅. Thanks for the great videos and incredible samples😊😊😊 Greetings from Ukraine😇😇😇

[@blackopaldirect]

You are welcome 😊

[@adamnwizard]

I never get tired of these videos Justin! Beautiful gem!

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you

[@marlasuiter9710]

I just found your video. What amazing talented man you are. Opal is my birthstone. What a beautiful opal💕

[@kencarbon2346]

Enjoyed watching your video great work on that opel. Turned out beautifully.Thankyou for sharing your experience with us.😃😃😃😃

[@blackopaldirect]

Welcome Ken

[@arthurjones9580]

Soooo pretty! One of these days! We'll buy one!

[@bentationfunkiloglio]

That was a beautiful opal. Thank you for sharing this video of its transformation from rough stone to magnificent gem.

[@paulscholtes3728]

My first comment. I am obsessed with watching your art. My favorite opal is your favorite found under your dads old shop. That kaleidoscope of colors is awesome. I watch a lot of opal on KZbin but only after I’ve watched yours many times over. You are truly gifted. Thanks for how watching your videos relieves stress. Almost like meditation.

[@wilsonrawlin8547]

What a stunning gem!

[@angvannuil9280]

gosh Justin that is a beautiful stone 😍...angie in Scotland

[@TERRYWIRT]

I wouldn't tell a Dr how to do his job, and darn tooten wouldn't tell you how to work on the Opals...your the MAN ! I would always trust your judgment in these cases...thanks for posting...

[@blackopaldirect]

Haha thank you Terry

[@nancypiros9133]

Enjoyed watching this opal cutting Justin! Thanks for sharing. Gorgeous opal…

[@phoenicianstones4783]

Favorite opal, black or crystal opal . Favorite pattern script in red or yellow. I love watching and cutting opal. Especially when a legend like Justin is cutting it!

[@debraanchante3661]

I love opals.. this one is so beautiful

[@tywren2486]

That stone has a riot of color in it.

[@blackopaldirect]

I like the choice in words lol

[@samanthafairweather9186]

Absolutely gorgeous!!! L❤️VE IT!! Good morning from Kingsgrove, Sydney 😎

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you so much!

[@MeMe-nw9mq]

Another beautiful opal! I love, love, love all the different colors in this one. Excellent!!

[@kennethnew3075]

Good evening Justin and Tamika. Thanks so much for sharing this opal with us. Your skill is unmatched Sir. All that color and patterns in one opal. Amazing .

[@blackopaldirect]

So nice of you Kenneth

[@miami305black]

I've been watching your vids for 2 months now, and besides Fishing vids, I appreciate and enjoy what u do with these gorgeous gems! I'm a former Phlebotomist, so I kinda can relate in having a 'soft touch! I see u LOVE what u do and I say THANK YOU for sharing with us Your Craft/Skill💯Keep SHINING💪🏿👍🏿

[@scottlubsen9004]

Wow, all the colors of the spectrum, beautiful stone Justin.👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻🇺🇸

[@blackopaldirect]

Thanks Scott

[@alistairmills7608]

Strewth, what a ripper. Thats a favourite.

[@tonywild1963]

Wow Justin, this is a beautiful gem with so many colours running deep. Great to watch you cut this. Thank you

[@karenshort3880]

I love to watch you work.

[@Urban_Piggy]

Great stone that I was nervous about because of the sand!

[@richardbrown5320]

Great work from a once again challenging stone.

[@charlottetharp8381]

Amazing person day after day cutting and polishing don’t know how you do it ! But my husband and love watching you Bob is just learning how do rocks! I really want one of arrows how could see if you have thing’s like that! Keep going I am watching you right now it so beautiful hugs kisses 😘❤️🥰🌹👍🙏🙏

[@nilaleduc5043]

I didn't know that opals could look so good. Vivid bright electric color. Beautiful 😍

[@imaginenation3280]

Im a new fan, and wanted to say that there are a lot of opal shows on YT. Yours is special based on the face that your so mellow, real, enthusiastic and knowledgable. Really enjoy this. Cheers from Southern Ca....

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you so much 🙏

[@juliehenry6421]

THANK you for making that beautiful stone and posting it on my Birthday(10/10)

[@blackopaldirect]

You’re welcome 😊 and happy birthday

[@juliehenry6421]

THANK You😁

[@ralphferrara5152]

That turned out to be a beautiful stone. I could see a small inclusion as you were moving it around, but it I guess you couldn’t go any further. I still think you did a great job as always. You always seem to pull it off. You know your stuff.👍😊

[@jordanbird9270]

I super enjoyed this video and gem!! What a beaut

[@ljwilliams755]

I think your show should be called "The Magic Shop"!

[@janiceoldham1794]

Finally got Covid. Watching your videos is making me feel better.

[@juliafayeconner594]

That is a really beautiful opal!

[@veggiesarefruits]

It's gorgeous, Justin! I'm always amazed how you can create a perfectly balanced stone, when there's a color bar that undulates, there's sand everywhere, the potch is uneven... it's like magic. So cool.

[@blackopaldirect]

Thanks so much... many years of practice.

[@Countrysidegirl6]

Gorgeous opal Justin! I just wish I were wealthy enough to buy a dozen from you! I do absolutely love the Kindred Crystal Opal ring that I bought from you back in September. It made my year. It is my favorite piece of jewelry ever. Thank you for cutting my crystal opal and thank Ruth for the beautiful design!❤

[@blackopaldirect]

Thanks so much! I so happy to have made your year. You made my year to hear you say that

[@marywrigjt7614]

Love your table.

[@alistairmills7608]

Bloody good Justin, bloody good mate. Watching this exquisite jewel come to.light took me to my happy place. Namaste

[@KR-wj5mt]

Funny thing happened watching your post the other night. I’m embarking on my 60th bday on the 10/22 and while watching you work your magic I fell asleep(no disrespect) but was dreaming Simon Cowell was going to buy me an opal for my bday out of your collection and was picking one out when I woke up to your post on my phone in my bed it was all a crazy dream. Lol. Love watching what you do!

[@jackszakacs7096]

Beautiful stone, once again superb job.

[@excepteuropa]

Always love your videos and your passion sir. Thank you.

[@iqcops]

Great job on this one for sure.

[@susanjennings4113]

Beautiful stone love the colour 👍❤️

[@davidedgar2818]

I could hear and see your application of pressure. I've never worked opal but have worked fire agate. There are some similar techniques for cutting, although I think the agate is harder to work. Though less valuable , fire agate is so easy to lose the fire effect with a simple mistake. I've since moved to Hawaii and left my machines with my brother in law. He and my niece and nephews enjoyed it for many years. It was very impressive to see you carefully work that irregular piece into such a finished gem. Thanks for displaying your ( and dad's) many years of experience.

[@sandmaker]

What a great stone with super bright color. You brought it to life with just the right amount of pressure at the right places. Keep the goodness coming. Be happy, safe and stay healthy 😷⚒

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you sand

[@nobodyhome8148]

Beautiful Gem indeed ! Thank you !

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you too!

[@pjpalmer5114]

Beautiful stone.

[@sarahb.6475]

I have heard of opals but had no idea what they actually looked like. wow... all those colors! I can see why people like them. they are pretty shiny little rocks, rocks with a rainbow of colors on them.

[@billyyank5807]

I notice how much pressure you use. You can tell when you're shaping that you are just letting the stone roll in your fingers. You actually have a pretty delicate touch, in my opinion.

[@michaelscott5450]

Another beautiful gem. Thank you for sharing.

[@blackopaldirect]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@CrimFerret]

Another beautiful gem. One of the things the videos can't convey is the changes in the pressure you apply as you're cutting an opal. You know what you're doing based on decades doing this and learning from your father who, from everything you've said, was an absolute master at doing this. Just remember he didn't start out that way and you're pretty darn good at it at this point too. For anyone starting out learning to do this, use a wheel at the grit level that you feel you have full control over. It doesn't matter if it takes longer. Better that than killing what would have been a wonderful gem. As far as your polishing wheel, it's a custom tool at this point. You know, by instinct, where to polish which parts of the stone. I know people ask about where to get a notched polishing wheel like that. It wouldn't help them. Maybe someday I'll be able to afford a truly fine opal. Meanwhile I can enjoy seeing them come out of the rough here.

[@Gigi-14]

This one turned out quite spectacular. Watching you cut these stones is like a treasure adventure. Really neat to watch. 😊

[@michealklonowski5267]

nice thank you for sharing the adventure and information

[@davidsherman5222]

Thanks for the direct and immediate wheelwork, my favorite kind of show.

[@blackopaldirect]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@durhamgrigg3125]

Really beautiful gem!❤

[@lobotomykush5710]

Beautiful stone

[@margaretheschmidt7062]

What a beauuuutifull opal, job well done Justin!!!!

[@belladingdong3396]

You sparked an intense passion for opal cutting for me and I have no idea where to start, so I continually binge watch your videos and dream of the day I can pursue my passion.

[@blackopaldirect]

Sorry haha you now have opal fever.

[@belladingdong3396]

@@blackopaldirect I think it's terminal 😂

[@jamesmoore4585]

Wow I honestly could sit watching these beautiful stones brought to life all day amazing work ⚒️❤️

[@blackopaldirect]

Wow, thank you James

[@silverwishes6000]

Very beautiful 😍😍 great job shaping and polishing the stone, iam a little upset with you 😢😭 I didnt get a dance

[@blackopaldirect]

Ok next time haha maybe !!!!