Black opal beauty! Here’s one for a serious collector.

This valuable stone was set in about 1910 into a simple 15-carat gold bar brooch accented with four good old mine cut diamonds.

Lightning Ridge opals, with their dark body tone and consequent intense fire, had just reached the market.

Many high-grade stones were exported to the US, the UK and France, with the best of them set into the highest quality jewels of the day, including by Tiffany.

Those that remained here in Australia were often treated as just a pretty novelty by our smaller and much less wealthy population.

This example bears the stamp of Prouds, a local manufacturer and jewellery retailer who at that time aspired to bring good quality jewellery to the Australian market.

Though I don’t usually favour converted pieces, I can see this being made into a stunning ring or pendant.

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• Handmade in 15-carat yellow gold
• Oval cut natural Australian black opal showing a bright blocky pattern in the full spectrum of colours measures 8.2 x 6.1 x 2.9mm, estimated at about 1.00 carats
• Four old mine cut diamonds estimated to total 0.16 carats, graded set as H/VS & SI
• Comes with an independent insurance valuation for $8,000
• Approximately 5.8cm (2 1/4 inches) wide, central section is 1.3 x 1.2cm
• Weight is 3.7 grams
• In excellent antique condition
• Will come in a Karen Deakin gift box (my antique boxes are not for sale)

Please examine the photographs carefully – they form part of the description.

I’d be very happy to send more information and images. Layaway available.

I accept returns within 14 days if you’re not delighted with your purchase.