Why are australian opals more valuable than Ethiopian opal?

Australian opal is formed in the sediments of our former inland sea, the unique process of that formation has resulted in a very stable form of opal, it is not porous and it does not change colour when wet. Ethiopian opal is formed under very different volcanic conditions, it is not stable and is very prone to cracking. Ethiopian opal is porous and absorbs moisture which affects the colour and transparency of the opal. Australian opal is more expensive because it is stronger and more durable, as well as being harder to find.

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White Cliffs crystal opal at it's best!

Ethiopian opal with honeycomb pattern. Photo by Opal Auctions.
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