Searching for the ultimate black opal. I found it after 60 years

[@veganbutcherhackepeter]

I can see how emotional this is for you, Justin. Much love to you and yours.

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you

[@mullerlove7453]

@@blackopaldirect hi can you assist me how do I reach to this guy please I have black opals

[@Michael_Maxfield]

It's not the darkest opal I've ever seen but those colors, they're just SO vivid. The play of color is phenomenal too. I've never seen anything like it.

[@RobFindsTreasure]

I found the story you told as beautiful as the gem itself. Congratulations brother - it’s an absolute beauty!

[@virginiasullivan1040]

This is an absolutely stunning gem. It was found when it was supposed to be. A wonderful tribute to the memory of your father. Thank you for sharing.

[@kmungoven]

It's a gift from your dad from the heavens. Meant for his friend to find and to be shown to you. Your dad is definitely showing his pride in what you have done with his knowledge and your business. Well done Justin and Ruth. What an amazing story, stone with its vivid colours, patterns and family heirloom. Blessings.

[@melissaandjosh6210]

I’d like to believe that this gem was magically created by your dads dreams, hopes , hard work and determination. The stone is beyond unbelievable but the story makes it truly a one of a kind.

[@TheOriginalFlowerdough]

maybe that opal and him living near it caused it to call out to him

[@christinevr7698]

That is an amazing gem. Absolutely incredible. It feels like a gift from your dad. ✨💖

[@blackopaldirect]

YES ❤️

[@theodorebrown5740]

Thats a heirloom piece for ceartian

[@kennethnew3075]

Your dad was definitely looking over your shoulder . Do you think he was laughing from heaven seeing where this was from. Wonderful family story. Thanks for sharing it with all of us.

[@wilsonrawlin8547]

Between the beauty of that stone and your story. I honestly cried my eyes out Justin. I have no way to really share my feelings of respect and joy for you and that beautiful Opal. Maybe crazy, but I would give you a hug right now if I was there with you. Just overwhelmed.

[@blackopaldirect]

Awww it is a cool story and gem 🙏🙏🙏❤️

[@susansprouse1023]

It is simply gorgeous. So happy for you that you get to own this gem of such great sentimental value.

[@raycapetillo5569]

Man Justin... what an amazing story. To finally find the opal of your dreams is remarkable. So happy for you. Sometimes life drops these little nuggets of happiness and if we are lucky, we can catch them. You honor your father well! Lost my dad last year, and after taking care of him for years, I am still grateful for all he taught me. Again, happy for you and your family! Loved the new work shop. Now let's hear you say "I'm going in"

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you Ray

[@blueyoshi8231]

That's amazing,what a story!! You wouldn't believe it unless you lived it 😁 Your Dad will be doing cartwheels in the sky Justin and laughing with joy for you. 😊

[@blackopaldirect]

I think you are right Yoshi

[@chadatchison145]

What a touching story and one-of-a-kind gem, thanks for sharing this with us Justin I feel honored and privileged to have seen the gem and heard the story behind it. :)

[@blackopaldirect]

Glad you enjoyed it Chad

[@Apok_Black]

What an amazing gem with an amazing story. Just goes to show how limitless opal can be in pattern and colour, who knows what else lays under ground waiting to be found and in areas that people may never suspect!

[@blackopaldirect]

This is true

[@FlattardiansSuck]

I'd love to explore the field near Byron Bay, always get the spelling wrong, Tintanbar? The guy has closed it up i heard, but the few good ones were very unique. That's one lifetime gem Justin, and with that story, all the more special. Congratulations.

[@dirtdiggindawg310]

Justin i can see by your emotions that this particular gem is like bringing back a part of your dad and can understand why you just had to have it . Congrats and God bless. And thank you Sir for sharing it with us!

[@obieobrien5883]

I am so glad that gorgeous stone has come back to your family! Your dad must have sent it to you.

[@blackopaldirect]

He must have

[@AurouraB4327]

❤️ it’s like it was speaking to him in his dreams, as he literally was right on top of it! Couldn’t be more happy for you 😊

[@catch22frubert]

What a beautiful stone, and a beautiful story to go along with it. Congratulations Justin. I know having that Opal is like having a piece of your Dad and his dreams. I hope you get to pass that gem through the generations of your family forever. You deserve it.

[@blackopaldirect]

🙏🙏🙏

[@tonywild1963]

That is truly an amazing story about your dad's search for the ultimate opal. Who would of thought it was under his feet all that time. I'm so pleased you have it in your possession now Justin. You dad would be so proud of you. Thank you and that opal is beautiful and precious.

[@kateg7298]

This came across my feed again and it makes me so happy to see your joy at owning this gem and the memories that it brings back to you. It's truly the most beautiful opal that I've ever seen. I hope that it came into your life at a time where you needed a little nudge to say that you're not forgotten by your Dad either and that he's proud of you.

[@maryhiatt808]

Absolutely incredible gem!!! The story and connection to your father makes it all the more special. I have never seen an opal that stunning, congratulations!

[@deenaminyard3788]

I am so happy for you! What a tribute to your Father and his friend. The friend didn't have to tell you about it but I am glad that he did. I think he wanted you to buy it. Congratulations!

[@Lalo1]

Beautiful gem! Congratulations and enjoy it. That you now own it and the story behind it make it very special. You father must be smiling wherever he is.

[@kitten9636]

Justin I love that your emotion helps to portray your stories. Every time you talk of your Dad, I feel how much love you have for him. It's so nice to be able to share your "real" with you. It's very touching. You were meant to have this gorgeous stone. It's beautiful.

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you Keri

[@blazyd22]

Absolutely stunning gem! One would never tire of staring at it! Congratulations

[@tarhabrown8038]

Your Dad’s Gem is so stunning, it gave me chills and left me speechless. I truly believe that your father manifested that stone from all of his years with the perfect stone in mind. What a beautiful story, and a gorgeous legacy.

[@lnr12241]

That's an absolutely beautiful stone. In my opinion no diamond can touch that. Exquisite

[@sharonjones7674]

Amen to that! Natures creations are just phenomenal. And opals beat them all.🌷

[@Shock_Treatment]

Well, opal is basically just quartz with water.

[@maryannkom299]

@@Shock_Treatment well diamonds are just compressed carbon. So there’s That.

[@Shock_Treatment]

@@maryannkom299 I know, but they're probably the most compatible gem with people for that reason.

[@Vile_Entity_3545]

Diamonds are just overpriced tat compared to that. I was given a bag of semi precious stones when I was 6 years old from an old lady a few doors away who picked them up from a beach in Rhodesia. If I can remember there was a tiger eye and amethyst which were exquisite and a few others. Now gone forever as I do not remember what happened to them. Opals fascinate me and I will have to buy one one day. Also I remember finding a small brown stone on the ground at my families working mans club they went to. It had a glitter on it and I just wish I still had it as it was a one in a billion or more. It definitely was natural but that just got lost as I was growing up too.

[@ricochetaz3846]

WOW ! Justin, that has to be the most beautiful Opal I have ever seen! Special things come to special people. Hope to see you and meet you in Tucson this year. Ve con Dios amigo mio. Rick in Pantano, AZ. Yes the ghost town.

[@julieenslow5915]

I hope we have a video coming to show this gem being cut and polished!! Remarkable story - congratulations on this find!

[@1COMIXMAN]

Absolute stunner of a gem. Between the quality and the sentimental and situation that it was found to me means it was meant to be yours in the end.

[@blackopaldirect]

I agree Thank you

[@WVALLMOSTHEAVEN]

Love it. This gem is like love we can travel many many years all over the world looking for it and we suddenly realize it right where we started searching for it. In this case this gem was right under you dads feet all a long.

[@GreggBB]

Fantastic story in every respect. Thank you for sharing it with all of us. As far as the stone goes, I see why you say it is a once in a lifetime stone. So glad your dad's friend came to you, giving you the chance to have that, along with the story of the stone. I hope that for as long as you have family, for however many generations that will be, that it stays within your family. The definition of a true treasure.

[@unacceptablefinnrazelle697]

Finally!!! The Opal of Legend!!! You def didn't disappoint Justin! So happy for you! What a story♥️

[@dustyjones8988]

Really is an unbelievably stunning piece. Definitely the best I've ever seen.

[@ichiryu87]

I've seen a lot of stunning black opal gems but this one has such vibrant colours it almost seem unreal... just unbelievable

[@joostlammertsvanbueren1868]

WoW what a story, I’ve been watching you for so long, I saw disappointment, a lot of happiness, a lot of emotions. But this story almost made me cry. And I am very happy for you. That opal is SOO gorgeous

[@scottishwifie14]

You are meant to have this opal, what a story what a stunning opal to pass down the generations and tell the story over and over it’s a keeper.

[@cocobean8241]

Everlasting memory of your Father! So happy this beautiful gem found you eventually. I think it was always meant to be! Love your work Justin & I will buy from you one day when I have some play money 🙂

[@jantrueper8438]

This unique stone is completely out of this world! Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful story and the unbelievable find with us!

[@twasbrillig33]

HOLY GRAIL of black opals! the synchronicity (no coincidences) of where it was found is a sign from your dad looking over you! I've always noticed that every black opal you've shown on this channel always has a slight milkiness to it... but this has 100 percent clarity, and the color assortment and layout is mind blowing. Truly incomparable!

[@Andysfishing]

Look at all those colours and definition, just amazing!

[@blackopaldirect]

Thanks Andy. Nice Color’s like a coral trout 😊

[@jawjaboy1234]

Oh my, how touching this story of your Dad's legacy opal. To think that he "lived" over that beauty is overwhelming to contemplate. Congratulations for acquiring it. What a family heirloom that stone is now.

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you

[@ndean1687]

Wow! Just...WOW!!! 😳 I love the colors! And, it's totally awesome that it was found near where your dad lived. Congrats on a breathtaking, stunning gemstone! 😍

[@SirRocksAlot]

Blows one away when we have these overlapping circles occur. Had a couple myself this week. As mentioned before by myself in your comments section, there are no coincidences. Its similar to a "de ja vu" which is telling you, you are extactly where you are meant to be. Congratulations.

[@ScottishGoldHunter]

Wow Justin! So happy for you to find the Opal of your dreams😀 Your Dad will be looking down with pride⛏🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@Hugh.G.Dildeaux]

Beatiful story. There's something magical among gems, not only are they beatiful, but they change everything in common life, well, for me they did. Just like Justin's story, like you just 'know' his dad took care of this.

[@dennispasch9538]

Your dad sounds like a truly honorable father and friend. His friend could have sold that Opal years ago but, apparently true friendship prevailed.

[@johnweaver4421]

You can't write stories with that much honest feeling. Congrats, wicked nice gem!

[@blackopaldirect]

🙏🙏❤️

[@rohantherockwiththerocketh7871]

Obviously an emotionally charged one considering it involves the family history! Beautiful opal though, I think considering the history and the quality of the opal you made a great purchase and keeping the stone will no doubt keep those memories alive! Have fun mate.

[@ritamcbride3060]

I am so grateful you found this gem that is so reminiscent of your dad. Your emotion is pouring out of you.

[@AudieHolland]

Seems to me you've done quite alright in the opal business! I haven't watched that many videos and what from what I saw, it takes rather a lot of money to become succesful in the business and even then it's not guaranteed if future rocks yield great gems or just sand and frustration. But knowing you were able to purchase this magnificent gemstone for your own collection, tells me you've done great!

[@jamesmatheson5115]

Justin thats priceless, so happy you have something that connects the stone to not only your father but also to a very good friend of your father.

[@petert3355]

Basically your dad was sleeping on this opal, without knowing.... All you can do when you hear stories like this, is to believe in fate. That some force out there, is pushing lives and events in some grand picture. EDIT: Forgot to add..... that is one BEAUTIFUL stone.

[@blackopaldirect]

I agree Peter

[@ThatOpalGuy]

Perhaps his dad's friend was driven to look there?

[@mir-jan3496]

@@blackopaldirect And he was meant for you Justin.

[@sandmaker]

You brought a lump in my throat and a tear to my eye. Thanks for sharing the truly amazing story but also thanks for letting us see the one of a kind masterpiece. If took my breath away. 😷⚒

[@blackopaldirect]

❤️❤️❤️

[@nathanvanlieshout7834]

Oh wow, what an amazing opal. It looks like it's got blue potch as the backing. Almost like it's not q black opal, but it's own rare blue opal. Where it was found and who found it, this opal was only ever meant for you.

[@lynneperg6853]

Wow, just wow. I know your Dad is celebrating and roaring with laughter about the ultimate opal being under his feet all along. Bless his old friend for bringing your Da's gift to you. Many hugs and Blessings to you and yours, from the States.

[@davidmckenna6562]

That truly is the most beautiful stone I’ve ever seen! Glad you got a chance to buy it Justin. Really love watching your videos! I had a chance to visit Lightning Ridge in1986 and stayed there with a miner named Steve Huff. Wonder if you know his whereabouts if he’s still with us after all that time. If you could put me in touch with him or his family I would be forever in your debt.

[@DianaJG8]

What an absolutely astounding gem! Awesome and breathtaking! I don't think I've EVER seen so many colors in one stone!! It's a loving "Hello" from Dad, I think. 🤗

[@Ericssonphoto]

What an amazing story and gem! It’s meant to be.

[@rossdiggle]

Please never sell it. I've never found gems pretty until your channel. I've fallen in love with the beauty of your opals. Keep well fella, for both you and your family.

[@geraldinenelson7322]

What an amazing story! I was very emotional for you when you were telling this. I could see on your face how much this gem means to you. The gem is breathtaking, absolutely gorgeous! I’m so happy that you’ve found this! Happiness to you and your family. I so very much enjoy you letting us in on your life, cutting black opal. Thank you 😊

[@sunshinemichele4224]

So so so sooooo happy for you!! You are beautifully raw and real. Your dad is telling you he loves you through this magical stone. Happy blessings and much love…

[@cabbtools7836]

What a find truly Rare Valuable Gem! The colours are so vibrant and beautiful to look over and over, again and again! Justin, I reckon the story behind how it was found is amazing and make it more valuable. You have so much emotion attached and summarised your family's history looking for Opals. You should name it and maybe write a little history book. Congratulations, such a fulfillment!

[@zentertainer217]

Absolutely incredible. And the story behind it is half the value. So great

[@victoriahey4226]

I could see how emotional you were just talking about this Gem and your dad, & how much it means to you. Lovely story, and WOAH!!! That really is the Gem of all Gems.

[@ganjacat8408]

That is truly an amazing stone. The color. The POP. It got all the traits.. The speckling in the middle, the color bars on the bottom, and even the blue tone of the stone itself is amazing.

[@MarkSwarthout]

Oh my, Justin! That is unbelievably gorgeous! And the family connection just makes it all the more beautiful.

[@gregware630]

That gem is unbelievable and the story too go with it would make it priceless too you

[@elizabethwitt2621]

Your dad's soul is in that gem. The connection you feel to that piece just radiates from you. That's more than the perfect gem. It's a spiritual journey. 🤧😭👏💐💘

[@cate7777]

Gorgeous and the irony that it was where your dad lived... Yes, you have to keep that one. That's a wonderful story.

[@sueparras6028]

A true gift from your father. I know he is watching over you and sent you this sign! Love your channel. 👍💯✌🇨🇦

[@michaelprue9024]

What an amazing story. Darn near brought tears to my eyes for you. So happy to know your dads friend thought enough of your dads company to bring that gem to you. Very nice. The emotional connection surrounding the entire purchase is astounding. I love it! Thank you for sharing this with us.

[@blackopaldirect]

🙏

[@EncinoLIVE]

Oh my goodness, That is gorgeous, truly psychedelic and out of this world. Love the story behind this one Justin, sometimes what we are searching for, has been right in front of us all along. Much Love

[@barbh5565]

How wonderful for you, Justin. Your story brings tears to my eyes. You should be wearing this one.

[@Polymitaer]

This is such an beautiful story :) I think your dad would be proud of you, for chasing this dream

[@blackopaldirect]

❤️❤️❤️🙏🙏🙏

[@paulbellas8797]

Congratulations on your purchase. Happy for you. Glad you recognize the importance of it to you and your family and your families' heritage. Keep living a beautiful life! Good for you Mate. God Bless!!!

[@scolee6408]

Remarkable! That is much more than an opal. I have been watching your videos and listening to your stories for a while and though I don’t even know you, even I can feel the spirit of your father in that stone. I can only imagine how it makes you feel but I do know how this story makes me feel. I think I’ll call my dad. Thank you for sharing.

[@janicedyck9212]

That is so beautiful. Makes you want to cry. The story is just so touching. Glad you own it I'm memory of your Dad.

[@leannetyrrell4873]

The time was right, you were able to purchase and not have to sell, how wonderful for the gentleman to seek you out.

[@waynegutschmidt7586]

I finally got to see you both live today. What a gem. Stay safe

[@duckmama]

Thank you for sharing this magnificent story and gem with us all. It's breathtaking in every way

[@stephenterrey3441]

I just found this Justin. That is amazing and what a beautiful gem. Congratulations and I can see how emotional this was for you, my heart goes out to you. Your Dad was a wonderful man and master cutter, it is great to see you there as well. Best wishes, Stevie Wonder .

[@folksdi3784]

I remember watching this channel a few years ago the quality of the videos are still exceptional

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you

[@jasonbrown5263]

I can see your old man up there now having a good chuckle, that is something very special Justin nice one mate

[@Chaunceylola]

Your father is still treating you to gifts. You’re being rewarded for continuing his legacy. Good things happen to good people and you’re great. Congratulations on your success and your continued great work. There are more treasures to come. Thank you for everything you bring to us.

[@r.m.alonzo7648]

That's the most beautiful Opal ever the colors are beyond amazing! And I'm so glad you have it. I've been watching your videos for a long time and I noticed when you talked about your Dad your voice would sound so tender and love for him. He sent you this to let you know he loves you just as much. It was his love for you that put that gem in your hands. You are so blessed ❤️

[@garyinsalaco9530]

WHAT A FANTASTIC STORY ABOUT YOU DADS SHED ,YOU ARE A JOY TO WATCH . THE COLOURS YOU BRING OUT OF THOSE STONES IS AMAZING . I USED TO MAKE STAINED GLASS WINDOWS ,AND FELT THE SAME JOY WATCHING YOU GRIND THE COLOURS OUT OF THOSE STONES ,THANK YOU FOR VIDEOING ! GOD BLESS.

[@michaelscott5450]

Amazing gem and a great story behind it. Never seen anything like it. Thank you for sharing this with the world.

[@blackopaldirect]

Thank you and you are welcome

[@janiceoldham1794]

In your Dad’s heart he knew it was nearby. Beautiful story, thought you were gonna cry and I in fact did. 💖

[@jonwatkins6542]

I love all of your stories but this one is very special. The irony in the hindsight is jaw dropping as is the opal itself. Thank you very much for sharing, it just adds to how special of a place lightening ridge really is.

[@sharonjones7674]

Love the story. I adore opals but your story, the history is the best part. I think perhaps your Dad was involved in helping to find this gem. There are no coincidences. Thank you for sharing. Blessings🌷

[@patriciahammes5574]

Just an amazing heart warming story! I'm so happy you now own it. Seems to have been destined for you. Perhaps a piece of your Dad's heart now remains in your hands.

[@thephilippinesadventurer2983]

What a truly amazing story and such an unbelievable gem. You bought a lump to my throat. I think the true value of that stone lies in your heart and not its monetary value.

[@NoeDactyl]

And the color patches are HUGE! I'm so happy for you Justin, this gem has been waiting for you all along! So glad it came from someone close to your dad! It's literally one of a kind!

[@William_Borgeson]

One thing I can count on with this channel, every time I watch it I see something beautiful. Today I saw something beyond beautiful, and the story to go with it! Thanks for sharing Justin, that is phenomenal!

[@karensparozvich6625]

I love this story. You were defiantly meant to be the keeper of this amazingly beautiful gem.

[@lewisweakland]

This obviously means a great deal to you given your relationship with your dad and your shared love of opals - happy for you to have this happen in your life!

[@blackopaldirect]

Yes sure does

[@mikeschatz9153]

Family is the greatest gem. You deserve this gem brother. What else is there to say. It is your heritage.

[@patrickmcgovern676]

I literally have tears 😂 of happiness streaming down my face for you and your Dad. It's story that I wish everyone could have in there life knowmatter what it is. And yours is a 60 year opal find. I'm so very happy for you and your whole family and your father's friend. It's truly amazing and you should write a book of your journey through not only your life but your families history. Bless you cheers 🥂 your a bloody legend ❤️✌️😃💓. From Patrick McGovern in USA. A opal cutter who not only watches you. But my opal experience is by hand. Using some of your father's lessons. From your videos. I use no cabbing wheels, And I'm honored that you have not only shared your story of learning from him. But many others have too including myself. And even though it wasn't a black opal. I struck my first 9 CT gem. And it's a beautiful gem. I probably wouldn't haven't had the skill without you sharing your father's hand carvings skills. Thank you 😊✌️ happy 2022. Bye 4 now

[@cathifamjourney469]

Wow, congrats!! Wish we could see your gem.

[@blackopaldirect]

Than you Patrick I am really happy for you to be watching the journey and enjoying 🙏

[@theadventuresofsmokyq]

Just stunning, really no words, the reds! Awesome, ment to be in your collection Justin. Just an amazing story. My wife and I got goose bumps when you first showed it. Congrats!