The gem set in this vintage Opal ring is one of the most individual and unique Black Opals we have ever seen. Sitting still the Opal appears primarily blue and green with moderate play of color. As soon as the Opal comes out of the case and starts to move in the light, it comes alive! The gem has two unusual color patterns- the streaks of green and orange are known as chaff, and just visible in the upper left corner is some marks that look like calligraphy- this is known as the Chinese writing pattern. Moving the gem from left to right and north to south one can see multiple patterns and every color of the rainbow, including coveted red and orange hues which pop against the jet black body color of this Opal. The gem is set in a signed Traub Orange Blossom ring, made circa 1930, which allows us to date the Opal to the first period of production of the Lightning Ridge mining fields, which is why this is such an exceptional Black Opal. While the mounting is rather dainty, the Opal is so intriguing that it carries the piece and makes for a fascinating ring on the hand.

Details: 14k yellow gold solitaire ring with oval Black Opal (12x7mm, N1 body color, Chaff & Chinese Writing Patterns) from Lighting Ridge, Australia; circa 1930.

This unique ring sold. Please contact us to create something similar.