Natural Dendritic Common Opal (Raw / Unworked) 20cm

Description

Discovered in the rugged, arid terrain of Bokvasmaak near the Augrabies region of the Northern Cape, this impressive Bokvasmaak Dendritic Opal rough specimen highlights South Africa’s distinctive mineral diversity. Unlike typical pale opals, rough from this locality is celebrated for its warm desert palette, blending creamy porcelain whites, rich buff tones, and sunset-peach iron stains with stark, moss- and fern-like manganese dendritic fractals.

At 20 × 17 cm, this is a substantial display block with a commanding presence. It can be mounted upright on a stand as a raw statement centerpiece in a mineral collection, or taken to the lapidary workshop where its solid volume allows for extensive slab cutting and high-contrast designer cabochons.

Product Specifications:

• Mineral: Natural Dendritic Common Opal (Raw / Unworked)

• Locality: Bokvasmaak, Northern Cape, South Africa

• Dimensions: Approximately 20 cm × 17 cm

• Pattern & Color: Warm porcelain white, terracotta peach, and honey-buff matrix with high-contrast black/charcoal dendritic intrusions

• Suitability: Statement display specimen, custom lapidary slabbing, cabochon crafting, or interior decor

Lapidary & Display Advice:

• Cutting: Ideal for a 10-inch or larger slab saw; yields solid, richly patterned slabs with excellent edge integrity.

• Polishing: Common opal polishes to a smooth, waxy luster using fine diamond grits, finishing cleanly with cerium or tin oxide.

• Specimen Display: Pairs beautifully with a custom steel or acrylic display cradle to highlight its natural contours and color banding.

(Note: You will receive the exact one-of-a-kind specimen shown in the photograph. Cleaned and dried to show natural color and texture.)