10/22/2026
An exceptional example of something that's becoming increasingly difficult to find — antique Australian opal bead necklaces.
We have two beautiful graduated strands of natural white opal from Coober Pedy, Australia. One features 69 beads measuring up to 13.5mm, while the other has 55 beads with the largest measuring 14.5mm. Both display beautiful play-of-color, with flashes of greens, blues, oranges, and reds moving across the beads as the light changes.
What makes these particularly interesting is their age and condition. Opal can develop a network of fine fractures over time, known as crazing. Neither of these antique strands shows any evidence of crazing, which is exceptional considering their age.
Australian opal bead material of this quality is becoming extremely difficult to source, with very little comparable material currently coming onto the market. Finding nicely matched, graduated strands like these is becoming increasingly challenging.
Both necklaces feature six 14 karat gold diamond-set rondel spacers, with approximately 1.08 carats of natural diamonds in each necklace. One strand is finished with an Art Deco diamond-set clasp, while the other features a 14 karat gold clasp. We've also had both strands professionally restrung on new silk, individually knotted between each bead.
Two very fine examples of antique Australian opal jewelry, and pieces that would be difficult to replace in today's market. More information in the comments below ⬇
