Opal Odyssey

Why Iona only works with solid Australian Opal - Hint: It's the best!

Opal jewellery should be something you can wear anytime, anywhere, and treasure for a lifetime. That’s why I choose solid Australian opals only. They’re naturally stable and strong, formed over mil...

A New Chapter for Iona Opal Australia: Our Workshop/Showroom Build

Over the holiday break, my husband and I took on an exciting project that has completely transformed my workspace. My semi-exposed verandah workshop was no match for the North Queensland heat, maki...

Opal Facts or maybe Fiction?

At Iona Opal Australia, we’re passionate about uncovering the true beauty and resilience of opals. Over years of research, we’ve debunked myths and brought facts to light so our customers can appre...

Discovering the Best Australian Opals

Australia is the world's premier source for opals, producing 95% of the global supply, and is renowned for its diverse and high-quality gemstones. Australian opals showcase an incredible range of c...

How to Identify Genuine Opals

To the untrained eye, distinguishing between a natural opal and a sophisticated synthetic one can be challenging. The range of artificial opals spans from the obviously fake to the intricately...

Should You Invest in Opal?

Are you considering investing in opal? Unlike traditional investments in metals like gold and silver, opal's value is not influenced by stock market fluctuations. Australian opal, known for its exc...

Inspiring Quotes and Sayings About Opals

Opals have a special place in the hearts of many, including us. These quotes beautifully capture the unique allure and magic of opals, reflecting their status as one of the world's most cherished ...

Opal: October’s Birthstone

Opal, with its captivating array of colours, has fascinated people for centuries. As the birthstone for October, it holds a special significance for those born in this month. But what exactly is o...

Things to do in North Queensland: Iona's Favourite Coastal Adventures

When I'm not immersed in the intricate and captivating world of opal cutting, you'll find me exploring the breathtaking beauty of North Queensland. Living in Townsville has its perks, especially w...

Opal Fossils: A Comprehensive Guide

FAQs: What are opal fossils? Where are black opal fossils found? What does opalized/opalised mean? Lightning Ridge – Black Opal Fossils Lightning Ridge in northern New South Wales, Australia, is...