Australia is a land of stunning natural beauty, and its gemstones are no exception. The country is home to a wide variety of precious and semi-precious stones, including some of the most sought-after in the world. In this article I will discuss gemstones in australia.
Opals
Australia is the world’s leading producer of opals, and its stones are known for their exceptional brilliance and fire. Opals are formed from silica gel deposits that have been compressed and mineralized over millions of years. The unique play of colour in opals is caused by the refraction of light through tiny spheres of silica.
Opals are found in many parts of Australia, but the most famous opal fields are located in Queensland, South Australia, and Western Australia. Some of the most valuable opals in the world have come from these fields, including the famous Flame Queen opal, which sold for over $1 million in 2004.
Diamonds
Australia is also the world’s largest producer of diamonds. Diamonds are formed under intense heat and pressure deep within the Earth’s crust. They are brought to the surface by volcanic eruptions and are found in kimberlite pipes, which are cone-shaped volcanic intrusions.
The Argyle Diamond Mine in Western Australia is the world’s largest diamond mine by volume. It produces over 8 million carats of diamonds each year. Argyle diamonds are known for their unique colours, including champagne, pink, and yellow.
Sapphires
Australia is a major producer of sapphires, which are found in Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria. Sapphires are a type of corundum, which is the same mineral that rubies are made from. Sapphires come in a variety of colours, but the most valuable are the royal blue sapphires.
Some of the most famous Australian sapphires include the Black Star of Queensland, a 733-carat star sapphire, and the Southern Cross Sapphire, a 563-carat sapphire that resembles the Southern Cross constellation.
Rubies
Rubies are less common in Australia than sapphires, but they are still found in some parts of the country. Rubies are also a type of corundum, and they are red in colour.
The most famous Australian ruby is the Sunrise Ruby, a 25.59-carat ruby that was mined in Queensland in 1993. The Sunrise Ruby is known for its intense red colour and its flawless clarity.
Other gemstones
Australia also produces a variety of other gemstones, including emeralds, garnets, topaz, and jade. Emeralds are found in Queensland and New South Wales. Garnets are found in many parts of Australia, but the most famous garnet field is located in Western Australia. Topaz is found in Queensland and New South Wales. Jade is found in the Northern Territory.
Australian gemstones in jewellery
Australian gemstones are used to create some of the most beautiful and valuable jewellery in the world. Australian opals are particularly popular, and they are often used in rings, necklaces, and earrings. Australian diamonds are also popular, and they are often used in engagement rings and other fine jewellery.
Australian sapphires and rubies are also used in jewellery, but they are less common than opals and diamonds. This is because sapphires and rubies are more difficult to mine and cut.
Where to buy Australian gemstones
Australian gemstones can be purchased from a variety of retailers, including jewellery stores, online retailers, and gem shows. It is important to buy gemstones from reputable retailers to ensure that you are getting authentic gems.
Conclusion
Australia is a land of gemstone treasures. The country is home to a wide variety of precious and semi-precious stones, including some of the most sought-after in the world. Australian gemstones are used to create some of the most beautiful and valuable jewellery in the world.