Witness the Transformation of a 625 Carat Ethiopian Opal into a 198 Carat Faceted Gem

Delve into the mesmerizing world of gemstone cutting as a 625 carat Ethiopian opal is skillfully transformed into a stunning 198 carat faceted gem. This video showcases the intricate process and the breathtaking results that follow.

The journey begins with the rough opal, a massive 625 carat stone from Ethiopia. Viewers are captivated by the vibrant colors that seem to float within the gem. As the cutting process unfolds, the opal is meticulously shaped and faceted, revealing the mystical hues that dance through the stone.

One viewer was initially skeptical, expecting an amateur cutter and lumpy final stones, but was pleasantly surprised, exclaiming, "You are good, Sir. That is some beautiful work!" Another viewer appreciated the passion behind the craft, noting, "We sometimes forget how multi-facetted people are."

The video sparked a variety of reactions. Some viewers expressed a preference for the uncut opal, finding its natural shine and colors more appealing. Others were curious about the technical aspects, asking, "How do they unglue it from the arm?" and "Are these natural opals or manufactured?"

From suggestions of turning the opal into a d20 dice to inquiries about the stability and potential haziness of the stone, the comments reflect a mix of admiration, curiosity, and personal taste. One viewer humorously suggested imbuing the gem with magic, while another pondered if the reduction from 625 carats to 198 carats decreased its value.

A fascinating point of discussion was the method of preventing the opal from crazing, with one commenter sharing a link to a research article on the prevention of cracking in Ethiopian opals. The idea of storing the opal in deionized water to maintain its stability was also mentioned.

The final product, a 198 carat faceted Ethiopian opal, is a testament to the skill and dedication of the cutter. As one enthusiastic viewer shared, "Opal is my birthstone so I love it. You are really talented and great at your craft. Would love to see more! Thanks for posting."

Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast or simply appreciate the beauty of a well-crafted gem, this video offers a captivating glimpse into the art and science of opal cutting.