Rough opal can be risky business - The outcome is incredible

This incredible piece of rough opal is from our last trip out to Lightning Ridge ( • Opal buying trip to Li... ).
It's equal measures of chance and risk from start to finish, but this is a ride worth joining me to see the end results!
Click here to buy the gem flashlight
blackopaldirect.com/product/a...
Full write up on the Blog - blackopaldirect.com/?p=104990
You can find the large opal here -
blackopaldirect.com/product/b...
And the others -
blackopaldirect.com/product/c...
blackopaldirect.com/product/b...
blackopaldirect.com/product/b...
Thanks for watching :)
Make sure to follow us on socials:
/ blackopaldirect
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[@danielevinger9078]

I don't know anything about gems, stone cutting and polishing and I can't stop watching these videos.

[@louprentz8554]

THIS GUY IS A TRIPLE PROFESSIONAL, 1. A GEMOLOGIST. 2. A VIDEO MAKER, AND 3. A DANCER

[@blackopaldirect]

😂😂

[@OpalMan514]

OpalCutter ,nice person

[@markgruner5820]

Best I've seen since 1960.

[@DennisSmithGrandCayman]

It has been 54 years since I cut gem opal and I still get Palpitations just watching you cut your stones. You are natural entertainer. Thanks for the memories.

[@kellynickles2178]

I know this old Great Grandmother will never afford an opal, but your videos keep the dreams going. And Dreams are still FREE. Thank You Justin, for letting me dream.

[@terrywade3696]

I’ve heard many gemologists talk about Labradorite and “chasing the fire” and the difficulty in cutting Labradorite to capture that fire. If not done correctly, a lapidarist can reduce a beautiful gem into worthless gray rock! So, watching you work to bring out the color (fire) in opals is truly amazing! You’re “chasing the fire”!

[@blackopaldirect]

Yes that stuff can be very thin

[@bryanduchane2371]

​@@blackopaldirectWhat about Australia led to the formation of high quality opal. Also, have you ever found gold in an area digging for opal. Australia has produced and is still producing massive amounts of gold. Abundance of gold suggests an area with active geologic formation. Does the amount of geologic activity have anything to do with the opal found there?

[@Skittenmeow]

​@@bryanduchane2371I'm unsure of the specific geological conditions that cause opal formation, but what's really cool is that Australia is the only country where opalised animal and plant fossils can be found. Eric the Pliosaur (Cretaceous age marine vertebrate) is the most famous example, but opalised dinosaur fossils are not uncommon here.

[@CONEHEADDK]

I've done very little stone stuff - or any else jewellery. But when I started at a school, my dad wanted me to make a pendant with some small stone in it, that had some history, for my niece for her baptisme. Interesting part is, that the rather boring brownish stone just happened to expose a cross, when I removed a tiny bit of it. Perfect - and the only thing that saved it, I'd say. Strange coincedence.

[@sharonstromley9350]

My first opals were mexican fire opals. I was given a ring with a glorious, high dome, 25 carat fire opal surrounded by diamonds which I treasure. But when I attended a gem show and bought my first Australian opals, I was to fly to L.A. the next day. I stared at my opal ring from Dallas to L.A., lost it its beauty for 6 hours. There are entire galaxies and universes to be found in them. No two alike, each with its own song to sing, no wonder you are so passionate about opals. You never tire of their mystery. I Love your videos. I n e v e r tire of them!

[@ann-or6ev]

I watch your videos to relax and take away all the political and health issues of the day. I don't fall asleep, but once relaxed by them, I sleep more easily. Bless you ❤️💓💕💖

[@grannyweatherwax9666]

I would take it as a compliment, people falling asleep to your videos. It means you make them feel safe. Love from England 🙂

[@barbedstar6480]

I literally jump in my chair and let out a big 'OH!!!" when that top slipped off. Congratulations!!!!

[@texasslingleadsomtingwong8751]

My jaw dropped , and I wanted to yell out ,"YES!!" . About time he hit an amazing piece.

[@johncarlson6472]

As a long-time Gemologist, even though I've never worked with rough gemstones (I work with faceted gems only), I can really appreciate the level of skill required to work a rough piece on the grinding/finishing wheels. You make it look effortless. However, I'd suspect an over-zealous novice could really screw up a piece quickly if not paying attention.

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you John

[@ichiryu87]

How can someone be a gemologist and never worked with rough gem stones?

[@milkismurder]

@@ichiryu87 A gemologist is not the same as a gem cutter

[@leahwoodruff9100]

hi! do yo mind if i ask where you went to school to become a gemologist? or what classes you took?

[@johncarlson6472]

@@leahwoodruff9100 Gemological Institute of America (Los Angeles). They have Certificate and Diploma training programs in Colored stones, Gem Identification, Colored Stone Grading, Diamonds, Diamond Grading and, of course the Gemologist Diploma Program (combined classes with Certificates and Diploma which includes a final exam...this is what I did). I highly recommend this if you're serious about getting into the field. GIA is a world renowned, recognized institution to the gem trade.

[@thegoodlookers3590]

The reason why people fall asleep to your videos, is that in this world, a calm, kind, reasoned voice coming from a phone is likely the only calm, kind, measured voice in their lives. That's both joyous, and sad, but i am thankful that you are here, abd thankful that you share your kindness and process with the world. The world needs more voices like yours.

[@sebastiannerling6042]

In a world of crisis and stress ... people falling asleep to your videos is a compliment to your ability to transfer a certan calm . It could be so much worse :)

[@coloringwithd]

I was on the edge of my chair. I was relieved that the blasted sand didn't get you. Beautiful pieces. Definitely a happy dance moment. Thanks for sharing ☺☺☺

[@blackopaldirect]

You and me both! 😂❤️

[@ThatOpalGuy]

He's been practicing.

[@DianeGraft]

I was so happy when you went ahead and sliced off the top layer. There have been so many stones in the past where you have ground through a lesser color bar to get to the better color below, and I would be shouting at my computer "Nooooo! Slice it! It might not be the greatest color in that top bar, but there's still a pretty stone there that someone might like to have." And this time you went for the slice, and got a $400 dollar crystal opal out of it. Happy Dance!

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you Diane

[@DianeGraft]

@LittlefootwithAlopeciaI wish. Not in the budget. (I've just had to replace my fridge.) Maybe someday, and that's about the priciest stone I could imagine being able to buy. For now my UV resin simulations will have to suffice.

[@susanmiller6023]

I feel like I'm watching in anticipation of a piece of history being made, the birth of a piece of a heart somewhere. Someone will buy one of these out of love and it will be given to someone special. From a rough rock in the ground a heirloom is born, a jewel that will last many lifetimes, a jewel that will share thoughts and emotions, a jewel that will say thousands of words and a jewel that will be held in many hearts and hands. The people who will eventually admire one of these pieces may not be aware they have been born. Thank you Justin.

[@aaronramsden1657]

As someone who falls asleep to these videos, it's a great sign man, super relaxing voice, videography on point, all round very addictive Chanel, you git me into cutting opals 2 years ago after being hooked on your videos

[@leonardwells9613]

Well you are the “A TEAM” !!!! We all love it when your plans come together ! L 👍👍

[@scottdetrick4073]

Justin's on the jazz man!

[@General-G]

I love watching a master at work, I find you entertaining to watch with your great sense of humour. People might fall asleep to your videos due to your calming voice so take it as a compliment more than anything.great stones today great work as usual.

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you Geoff

[@General-G]

@@blackopaldirect you are very welcome

[@davidaa2521]

You asked if watching gave me anxiety? The wonderful thing about your videos is that I can enjoy watching a rough stone come into a beautiful gem without the worry from cutting it myself. You are the master!

[@georgebloemen4189]

The reason why people fall asleep during your videos is because you have a very calming voice

[@johnlittle8975]

I really like that you go through your thought process and explain all the different options you think about while deciding how to cut the stone. It shows how much experience you have with opal. Thank you for sharing that with the world!

[@raccoon93]

I agree, I've learned so much about opal from this channel. Super relaxing to watch too!

[@DJBenito304]

Súper relaxing 😌 to watch

[@divinacaotarot]

My Gosh! My heart stops every time Justin is anywhere near that blade. AMAZING work, as usual.

[@anthonyp7941]

You say some people fall asleep to your videos... I'd take that as a complement because if your content is the last thing they watch before bed, your doing it right. Love the videos!

[@justwinks1553]

If people fall asleep yo your videos, it means they feel safe when they hear you. Its a good thing.

[@mousiebrown1747]

The center stone looks like “a midsummer’s night dream,” cool sky, lush grass, & fairy lights. 😄. It has great character, to me, as does the little tear drop-it has CHARM!!!

[@mphmph1198]

I like that you name your stones. Kinda like race horses.

[@jkperdue1109]

I luvd your description, tried to see the same. But what I saw was the blues and greens of a Caribbean ocean .🌊🌴

[@danielfmyers]

I’d say the 4 in 1 was worthy of the dance 🕺

[@bridgettevazquez6519]

That was a great surprise. It all looks amazing. But on someone falling asleep to your videos, take as a compliment. Your voice is soft and comfortable . And I think it makes us feel safe.

[@NinaNooneknows]

I must say, thank you for not making annoyingly clickbait-y titles, even when you keep the secrets for us viewers to find! I wasn't *too* stressed about the process since this video says "The outcome is incredible", but it still didn't spoil the fact you got 4 stones out of that piece! And I loved to see that the sliced pieces weren't wasted either. :) Great victory moves!

[@Patrick-vc6zk]

I always feel like we have completed a journey, and that gives great satisfaction! I could watch this all day!

[@V2k2010]

You are a true Master of your craft Sir and i know i really like watching you cut these stones. I live in the US and was telling my friend in the UK about you at the start of your video. Now we both will enjoy your craft far more than you seem to know possible. When i first started watching well over a year ago already i was an impressed as i still am each time i do see a video f yours. I find myself coming back to your page more than most other channels when i want something of exceptional quality and unique! Don't change a thing. 11+ thousand views isn't anything to shake a finger at!!

[@debbiependleton8507]

I find the anticipation of waiting to see how the gem turns out is the thrill and when it turns out to be gorgeous it's like a breath of fresh air. And you just keep on dancing, Justin. That's entertainment!

[@nailedfame9438]

Never been so stressed and relaxed at the same time when you cut a piece of stone in half

[@Skittenmeow]

You're a natural yarn teller and teacher. I love that you're both showcasing our amazing Australian opals but also educating on techniques for cutting the raw unique beauties. It's always a gamble, but a far more educated gamble than any casino could offer.

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you so much!

[@wearybashful]

I would love to see the jewelry made from these gems, particularly unusual pieces customized to show off an unusual gem.

[@carenburmeister5002]

I like your goofy enthusiasm. It’s contagious and makes watching your videos all the way to the end worthwhile.

[@shauntyson7367]

I fall asleep to your videos, and it’s the greatest compliment you could ask for. Your craft and the way you teach us at home, it’s light hearted and fun and super interesting ! What you watch before bed determines how you think the next day !

[@cathyerley3057]

Had me going for a minute there, Justin. Thought we were gonna miss out on the Happy Dance, lol! Opal is such a capricious stone. I've watched you get skunked by ones you expected to be a no brainer, then turn around and get blessed by one you had no real hope for. Besides death and taxes, another certainty of life is opal will never leave you bored.

[@73krimzen]

You always make the journey from rough opal to a finished gem something to remember & thank you for sharing with all of us!!

[@blackopaldirect]

You are so welcome!

[@kimberlydunn9173]

s Some of us love to watch your vids and smoke weed. JS

[@donnamoren937]

At 82 now with your work, I think of my High School Chemistry teacher, Mrs. Herron, and the love for rocks she gave me! You delight all the senses, and spark the creativity energy within as the Grand Adventure unfolds one video at a time! I love your love for Life! Perhaps there is a sophomore out there watching you love life and rocks! Good Beauty work!

[@TerriEustice-mz3cd]

You make me crazy when you start grinding away. I keep thinking that you’re going to ruin the stone, but you come through every time. I’m so impressed with your skill!!

[@dherman0001]

When you glanced the camera around the room at the tools, I was wondering which ones your dad had held in his hands. You could do a whole show on stories surrounding his old tools.

[@blackopaldirect]

True

[@liesle.8909]

@@blackopaldirect Oh, please do. It would be great for my research. ;)

[@rmm3150]

Just gorgeous. Don't know how someone can fall asleep - I find the cutting and shaping exciting with anxiety.

[@obeedoo]

You want to know how your videos make me feel? I feel excitement and, yes, anxiety, too. But mostly just pure joy! Love your work!

[@williamcarlin7915]

This channel has accomplished two things with me. #1 I am now 100% convinced that opal is the most beautiful stone. (And that you're a nut) #2 I really do love watching a true craftsman at work. I trust you to salvage the situation no matter what and then make me feel sorry for you by revealing your music allergy.

[@kadiejones4097]

One of my favorite cuts to far! Great job on thinking outside the box & coming away with 4 gems! I’m requesting a piece from your shop as a Christmas gift from my husband to make a new wedding set.

[@blackopaldirect]

Nice I am here if you need help

[@tvaud]

Mr. Sandman, you did a great job with those stones. I get anxious watching, hoping the color is there and the sand spots are shallow. I can use a strong drink after viewing.🍷 Opal is my birthstone, so it’s exciting to watch you uncover their true beauty.

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you

[@carinanderson8239]

Yay! You danced! I thought “Oh, no! Not beaten by sand again!” But not today! Four lovely stones. Dance worthy stones. Happy dance time.😁

[@margaretmcpadden6297]

This is my go to channel when I want to relax. I get to watch something beautiful happen.

[@JasonSmith-we5ls]

Your channel is my new favorite. I came across it just a few weeks ago, so I’m a newb, but I love watching you work those stones. Bravo for showing the world your talent and for showcasing these beautiful opals. If you’re into cool rocks and relaxing, Justin is your man!!

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you Jason

[@frostypop934]

No, Justin, I could never sleep to these amazing journeys! I had enough angst when you cut that crystal top off that I had to show my hubby. He doesn’t understand why I get so worked up. I am learning so much from you. Many, many thanks!

[@blackopaldirect]

Aww thank you I’m glad you get something out of them 🙏

[@simongibson6228]

You're not just a master craftsman, you're also a master entertainer!.

[@gls1864]

I cant stop watching you working those beautiful peace by peace of the opal. It makes me want to watch more and more.

[@nancypiros9133]

Such an incredible journey!!! I was nervous about you making the BIG cut! Love watching how you think through each step of cutting this unbelievable stone into 4 gorgeous pieces! Thank you for sharing!

[@CraigConnors]

In all the times I have watched your videos I have never seen a stone with such a thick color bar. So much depth, it is a gorgeous group of stones. Nice job!!

[@doreyschmidt4318]

Your work is priceless! This retired professor gives your videos multiple A grades...A for ARTISTIC ANALYSIS...A for ANTICIPATION...A for AUDIENCE APPRECIATION...A for AGELESS ENHANCEMENT of NATURAL BEAUTY!........

[@NicksNightmare99]

Stone Cutting ASMR. I most definitely have fallen asleep to your videos before. The grinding sound and your light voice is very dream inducing.

[@stevenmoulson8199]

I think the word I would use for your video's is satisfying. Seeing the rough stones transform into beautiful gems is amazing

[@aprilanderson200]

Take the falling asleep on your videos as a compliment, I love your voice, it is so calming, better than raindrops on a roof.

[@jjomsky7946]

You should be honored if someone falls asleep to your videos, that means you bring a calmness and peace to someone. Incredible! Keep up the awesome videos, they are much appreciated.

[@stevenbear1610]

I absolutely enjoy watching a master craftsmen who enjoys his work. Very relaxing, and a true pleasure. There are very few videos I look forward to, and yours are definitely at the top. A nice escape from a topsy turvy world, thank you.

[@blackopaldirect]

Welcome 🙏

[@Madlintelf]

Oh my Justin, all that sand finally paid off big time. Gorgeous stones and I had my doubts just like you did but you pulled it off! Well done, and WhooHoo!

[@user-ud6ej5kb6k]

That fish move when your dancing😂 what a riot! Nice gems in the end. Pleasure to watch and learn.

[@blackopaldirect]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@victoriahey4226]

I feel anticipation watching your vidoes. And as for people falling asleep, take it as a compliment, it means your videos are relaxing.

[@scarlettardis2018]

Hahaha! I was wondering where the dance was 🤣 This kept me up instead of going to bed myself. And congratulations on the stones! Bloody beauty of an outcome 🤩

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you Scarlet

[@jeffbrown4382]

I really enjoy watching you turn these lumps into gems. I've watched the opal hunting shows on TV for some years now, and never known what was the next step. Your expertise has filled that gap. You've made me appreciate their efforts and your craft so much. Cheers and keep them coming.

[@FrejaBlight]

That little slice was soooo cute, and wow!! The out come leaves me speechless! There is no one I would rather get an opal from. Your passion and love for them really adds to it. I couldn't fall asleep If I tried! I Get so excited, but if I did it would be your voice. So comforting. Like a singing bowl, or guided meditation.

[@brucewrandol]

Opals are a real guessing game. It is like you never know what will be inside but people know how to bring the best out of an opal. This is great entertainment for me.

[@Artista4u10z]

I def get excited when watching .. I always kind of want you to cut the stones and save every bit of color instead of grinding it off. I know that isn't always possible. So happy this worked out!

[@sharynhay9993]

I like the lighting set up today. Interesting stone and great drama.

[@carnivaltym]

For some reason the algorithm hasnt been pulling your vids up for a year - but suddenly you are back and I must say I've been on a black opal binge all day!

[@blackopaldirect]

Yay 😀

[@Phoenix_Enterprises]

My take...Justin I've watched your content for almost 2 decades...yes, I've been a bit of a "stalker" but, in a good way. I hope that sharing your video's to FB groups and what little I've been able to do has helped you grow a bit. Your love of opal/the miners/the geology/the history of opal cutting is an inspiration and a blessing. My love is taking a "rock" as my friends call it and turning it into a beautiful gemstone set into a one of a kind setting for one person that many can enjoy for generations...that to me is making a "small" mark in the world. Thanks for sharing. I've been in love with opal since my first purchase @ $1/gram...rofl...8-mile material and never any regrets on that jar. Still cutting the last bits on that purchase. Fishing is another love we share and it's been decades since I've been fishing. :( Stay safe and fricken awesome cut on this one. Good on you!

[@gwynnethjarvis1596]

I love how educational your channel is and how you show the true beauty of the gems you cut

[@sandra.phillips]

Thank you for sharing your work with us. Opal has always been my favorite gem... but I never knew how much work went into cutting them until I happened across your videos. Your videos are surprisingly relaxing... but too intriguing to fall asleep to. In fact, some have kept me up later than I planned... binge watching a wild and crazy... but talented Australian. Sending my respect and admiration from Virginia in the U.S.

[@dylancameron1356]

Never thought I’d be a rock person until I saw a video about black opal which then led me to your Chanel it’s crazy how natural beauty and someone with pure passion can inspire

[@davidfairgrieve8508]

Take it as a compliment, watching you do your craft, your show relaxes you, so you drift off, so compliment 😎

[@janetstanland2015]

Love it, what a beauty! So pleased one worked out after all the disappointments recently, well done & I hope you sell it for top dollar 💜

[@sandeman1776]

Always a lesson to be had. About to cut my first Lightning Ridge rough.

[@TheBalazoobaz]

Your videos calm me down at my most stressful! I am recovering from a heart attack and your videos give me the peace of mind when you start cutting at the stones. Thank you!

[@eh1702]

I do fall asleep to your videos sometimes - you have a calm, meditative voice - and in the morning, I go back to the last but I remember, and watch it over coffee. Probably quite a lot of people do run the video ywice!

[@diedredunham7383]

This set of opals is awesome. I wouldn't have thought of cutting the top off, but that really makes all of them better. It was a little exciting to watch you do this and how you had to decide what to do. That's why you get paid well for the opals you shape and finish. Great job!!

[@bethlarsen683]

How did it make me feel? I wanted you to run and find Ruthie or whoever was around and show it to them. It just made me so happy for you!

[@lennybaker4060]

Justin, Its simple... I love how you take a Rock and turn it into a piece of Art. Those stones were amazing!

[@ficheye00]

I never fall asleep to your videos, but I've watched many of them more than once, so I turn the sound off and play guitar. Very relaxing.

[@patriciapeters356]

That was fascinating and relaxing and a little nerve wracking. Love it. Opals, particularly black have (I thought…until recently…been my favorite stones…I have now come to love Australian crystal opal) now I understand the depth of work and tremendous skill that goes into each stone it totally blows my mind. You rock (no pun intended…)

[@talfineberg]

Excellent videos in general mate. I definitely go through an emotional roller coaster with you. Very genuine and open presentation. You make it look so easy too, although it's obvious that it took years of experience and probably a few tears to get here. My mum has (had) an opal ring that I was always fascinated by as a kid. Lovely colours. She has now given it to my fiance so I get to keep looking at it. Makes me wonder what the story and journey of that stone was?

[@leopoldpoppenberger8692]

The story will be completed when you you will watch this beautiful gem being set in a gold or silver setting what nice piece of jewelry that will be.

[@debraanchante3661]

I loved watching you cut these stones.. but then when you popped back in to do the happy dance you made my day!! Awesome video.

[@MeMe-wv8jx]

You keep me on the very edge of my seat ..I get so excited for you dude..I even cry ..

[@mollynakamori]

I love the drama and emotion created by your musical choices. It was like watching a movie. Well done, Justin.

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you Molly

[@RedMorg]

Hey Justin, a question: When you clean up your wheels, do you ever see small specks of color in the dust?

[@amberskyecampbell]

I love rewatching videos of yours with calm music and your voice is just like a lullaby

[@kathleenstewart7494]

Cannot understand how anyone could fall asleep to your videos. Watching is like going on an adventure, you never know what is around the next bend. Thank you for sharing. Enjoyable being an armchair traveler.

[@evildoervoltaire666]

The real question is if he could do it all over again, would he go for a single gem & not 3 separate ones + a top slice ? 🤔

[@blackopaldirect]

Never know haha ❤️

[@sarahrajoo5726]

Its almost midnight here but I am wide awake watching you work...Awesome.

[@celiastevenson8750]

You, sir, are a craftsman. The stones you got from that lump of rock are amazing, the colours are beautiful. Well done.

[@madeleine4725]

So I found a new hobby. Watching you slice up an opal. And I love it 😍

[@blackopaldirect]

Yay! Thank you!

[@vnvet2282]

You have a wonderful personality and had me captivated. I'm an old retired geologist and woodworker. But craftsmanship is craftsmanship regardless of material. Doesn't hurt that I love opals.

[@whataworldtolivein]

this literally made me cry lol, also take falling asleep to your videos as the highest compliment. it puts people at ease, and at a place of comfort! that's such a good thing to be, thank you!

[@gotensan608]

seeing your hand wounds was a true work dedication and hardship

[@lindajensen7178]

You take something so bland and make it so beautiful by bringing out the hidden beauty in it! When I see the right gem I will get it.

[@bigd1643]

You have a good voice for falling asleep too. Nice and eloquent. And the grinding is soothing too