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Australian Matrix Opal
Shape - Oval
Treatments - Yes - Sugar/Acid
$25/carat
This material is very well cut matrix opal from Australia. Most of the pieces are $20-40 per carat and are all treated with the standard sugar solution followed by acid. This is what gives matrix opal the black background that you see. It has a similar look to black opal at a fraction of the price. Matrix opal takes a great polish and is stronger/harder than solid opal. Sometimes after treatment the sugar solution will “weep” a little in the first few days/weeks. I’ve had all of these much longer so they are done “weeping”. Since this is matrix opal rather than solid opal there is no concern about crazing. Clean with mild soap and water and polish with a lint free cloth.