Boulder Opal - The Sea in a Stone
There are gemstones – and then there's the Boulder Opal. A stone that outshines all others when it comes to showcasing the pure wonder of nature. 🌊
What is a Boulder Opal?
Boulder Opals grow in cavities and fissures of ironstone in Queensland, Australia. Unlike other opals, Boulder Opals are left with their natural ironstone backing – this is not a flaw, but their greatest distinguishing feature.
This dark backing makes the opal's colors glow with particular intensity. The result is a play of colors that other opal types cannot achieve.
Australia — Home of Boulder Opals
The region around Quilpie and Winton in Queensland is the home of Boulder Opals. Over millions of years, rainfall has washed silica into the ironstone formations there, creating the colorful veins.
Victor and Elias Gallardo have personally traveled to Australia and selected the most beautiful Boulder Opals directly from the miners.
Every Boulder Opal is unique
No two Boulder Opals are alike. Each stone displays a different play of colors — from fiery red to emerald green, to deep blue and violet. Sometimes all the colors of the rainbow dance in the stone simultaneously.
The origin of the colors
The play of colors of the opal — the so-called opalescence — is created by microscopically small silica spheres arranged in regular patterns that divide light into all colors of the spectrum.
Caring for Boulder Opal
- Protect from drying out — do not store in direct sunlight
- Clean gently with a damp cloth
- Do not use ultrasonic cleaners or chemicals
- Store separately
Boulder Opal jewelry at Gallardos-Design
Our Boulder Opal rings and pendants are absolute unique pieces — no two are alike.
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