A Versatile Gemstone - Types of Opal, Enhanced by Style

There are many different types of Opals available, which are as diverse as the people that wear them. Tremonti has a wide range of Opal to suit all tastes - and it's not hard to pick the right one for you with so many quality designs available!

Black Opal

Dark, yet brilliantly vibrant, Black Opal is the rarest and most valuable of all Opals. A term given to any Opal showing a dark body colour, Black Opals are known for their sharp colour hue. All of Tremonti's Black Opal jewellery comes from Lightning Ridge in Australia, and with Karin Tremonti's credentials as a Gemstone expert, you can only expect the best quality around. 

14K Gold Australian 22.53ct Black Opal Ring, $10,000

Boulder Opal

Boulder Opal is a variety of precious Opal that forms naturally within the host rock. It mainly occurs in Queensland, formed as the in-fillings of cracks or voids, usually in ironstone boulders.
Boulder Opal can be light or dark, depending on the appearance when viewing from the face of the Opal. In high demand and extremely valuable, Boulder Opals are a beautiful example of Nature's raw majesty.

14K Gold 11.62ct Australian Boulder Opal Ring with 0.52ct Cognac Diamonds, $4,685.00

Crystal Opal

Crystal Opal is an offshoot of "White" Opal - these Opals have a pale tone with incredibly vivid hues, often having an almost holographic shine to their sharp colours. With brilliant colour play, you can often see the hues contained throughout a Crystal Opal, making it a delight to behold - and to wear. Crystal Opals are semi-transparent in their most luxurious form, and can come from all Opal mining fields, although the most common source for Karin Tremonti is from the Opal fields in Mintabie.

Custom Crystal Opal Design Handmade for a Client by Karin Tremonti

14K Gold, 9.16ct Crystal Opal with 1.49ct Garnet, $5,200.00

18K White Gold with 2.14ct Crystal Opal Ring (Top), $11,500; 18K White Gold with 0.41 Crystal Opal, White Diamonds & Fancy Sapphires (Bottom), $4,300.00

Welo Opal 

Unlike most Australian Opal stocked and used by Karin Tremonti, Welo Opal hails from Ethiopia, Africa, and has an entirely different spectrum of hues to the average Australian Opal. Ethiopian Opal was first found in Gondar and is from a plateau in the highlands, and has a delicate variety of colours - red hues being the most common, and blue hues the least - a fresh new twist on the amazing Opal!

14K Yellow Gold and Silver with 0.67ct African Opal & 0.05ct White Diamond, $820.00

14K Yellow Gold and Silver with 0.66ct African Opal Ring, $670.00

  Like the look of any of the designs you see here, or want to find the right Opal to suit you? We're only a call, click or short drive away - Talk to the experts in Gemmology and Opals today!


02 6041 6310 | 638 Kiewa Street Albury NSW | WWW.TREMONTI.COM.AU

Opals - What, where, why should I care?

What is an Opal?

Stunning Diamond and Opal Ring Set from Karin Tremonti's Personal Collection

Lucky Opal, the rainbow gem or "The Stone of Hope", is the birthstone of October. But you can get its fortunate properties no matter what month it is!
Opals have been used throughout history, prized as one of the most unusual and stunning gemstones. Philospher Pliny the Elder wrote about the beauty of of Opals all the way back in 77 AD - naming it one of the most highly prized and valuable of all gemstones in the Empire!

"Memoirs of the Ocean" by K. Tremonti

  Opals have been used in the crowns of kings - the Crown Jewels of France and Hungary include an extensive selection of Opals. The Crown of the Holy Roman Empire contained an Opal stone. Napoleon presented his Empress with a magnificent Opal with brilliant red flashes - "The Burning of Troy".

Queen Victoria was a lover of Opals and wore them throughout her reign, making Opals the highest in fashion in the British Empire for long after her reign ended! It wasn't long before famous designers such as Tiffany, Lilque and Cartier began using Opals in their designs - and they have been extremely popular ever since!

So next time you think about slipping on an Opal delight, think of the regal style and famous history contained within the brilliant colours of this amazing gemstone. 

Where do they come from? 

Black Opal from Tremonti Collection

About 95% of all the World's Opal comes exclusively from Australia, and has been valued for centuries as a precious and desirable gemstone. The native Australian Aboriginals even have many stories surrounding this gift of nature, one being the following as told by the Euraliah country Aboriginals, whose territory covers (amongst others) Lightning Ridge in Australia, home of the ultra-rare Black Opals.

Black Opal from Tremonti Collection

"The Dreamtime creator came down to earth in a giant rainbow. He gathered together all the tribes and said he would return when he thought they were wise enough to carry out his plan to have peace forever on Earth.
On the stony ridges where the rainbow had rested there was a great area of rocks and pebbles. The next morning, when the sun rose and shone his light on that spot, the rocks and pebbles flashed and glittered in the sun with all the colours of the rainbow that had given them birth: red, orange, green, yellow, blue and violet. These were the first Opals."
Want to learn how they're made? That's a mystery in itself! Check out our mini-factoid post here to find out why.

Common Opal Mining Locations

Nowerdays Opals come from many different mining points in Australia, including Coober Peddy, Lightning Ridge and Mintabie. Depending on the area, you can find all sorts of Opals in many different shades - perfect for someone who likes to celebrate Australia and might be a bit picky about the sort of shades they want to capture within their Opal!

Why should I care about Opals?

Because the majority of Opal is mined right here in Australia, you are capturing both your own slice of Australian style and raw, natural beauty. Tremonti care about supporting its local community and the full splendour of Australia, so all of our Opals are hand-picked for quality from Australian Opal fields - except for the rare and chic Welo Opal, which Tremonti sources from Africa.

Black Opal from Tremonti Collection

Opals are versatile and colourful, with shades that flicker and change in the light. Diamonds might be forever but an Opal captures the splendour of the world in a single stone - and no two Opals are the same. In addition, cleaning Opals are no fuss at all - as long as Doublet and Inlay Opals are kept safe, they may be cleaned with a little gentle water - be mindful of these two partial Opal types, as they can deteriorate in quality (merely due to their backing) if immersed for too long. A Solid Opal, however, like the kind used in all Tremonti pieces, is safe to clean with water, and even some detergent if need be.

Opal, Diamond and Gold Earrings from Karin Tremonti's Personal Collection

In addition, Tremonti designs are tough and durable, meaning that you can enjoy Opal without worrying about damaging it easily. Opal Perfection!

02 6041 6310 | 638 Kiewa Street Albury NSW | WWW.TREMONTI.COM.AU

Buying Opals Safely - What to Look For

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It's important to read as much as you can about opals so you know what you're getting, weather you're buying a gemstone or jewellery - just like any Diamond or Gemstone, it pays to be informed so you don't get stung by a bad investment! At Tremonti we will always guarantee to provide the highest-quality Opal with the best variety and range of hues in town - Karin Tremonti has years of experience as a certified Gemmologist, meaning that hand-picking a quality Opal for her clients is second-nature.

Before buying, determine whether you are looking at a doublet, a triplet, or a solid opal. Doublets & triplets consist of a very thin slice of opal, cemented onto a black backing. This causes the stone to be dark & bright in colour (the idea being to replicate the highly valuable black opal). The advantage of buying a doublet or triplet is a lower price (they are much cheaper to produce) - however the disadvantage is they may eventually be destroyed if repeatedly immersed in water. Solid Opals are therefore considered much better - they're 100% the "real thing" and are a quality, long-term investment. This is why Karin Tremonti always uses Solid Opal in her designs - her idea is always to use top-quality materials that you can wear anywhere!

Pick a stone that appeals to you! Each stone has an individual personality, much like people, so nobody can tell you what your opal should look like. Red on black is most valuable, but if you like blue, go for a blue stone!
Consider what you're going to be using the stone for. Shape and size is an important factor when considering the setting for jewellery. If you are buying a high quality stone, consider matching it with a high quality setting.
Consider the brilliance - A brilliant stone is good, no matter the colour or body tone, but you'll pay more. Stones classed as 'bright' are still beautiful, and even subdued stones can still be amazing.
Colour values - red is the most valuable, followed by orange, yellow, green, and then blue being the most common.
Certificates of Authenticity - always ask for a signed certificate of authenticity with your opal. Not only is it good for insurance purposes, and re-sale value, you are also making the dealer accountable.
Learn how opals are valued - Educate yourself on the general principles of opal valuation and compare stones. There is no 'formula' for figuring out the value of a stone, although people have tried and are still trying to formalise this process. There is no substitute for years of experience mining, cutting, and valuing stones. Buy from someone who has a good reputation, preferably someone who cuts or mines the stones themselves.
Cracks and faults - Any opal vendor worth their salt will clearly state any inclusions or faults within a stone which are visible to the naked eye. Natural inclusions and faults are OK, but don't buy a stone with cracks. If you are inspecting the stone in person, make sure it's dry, then hold it up against a lamp to inspect it for cracks. Be careful not to mistake natural formation lines in opal for cracks (eventually you will be able to tell the difference). A cracked stone is virtually worthless. The person you are buying the stone from has an obligation to make you aware of any cracks or faults in the stone before you purchase it. 

Tremonti will always let you know if there are any inclusions, but this is rarely necessary - as a Certified Gemmologist, Karin Tremonti doesn't muck around with poor quality Gemstones - she has her sights always set on the luxurious and quality.

02 6041 6310 | 638 Kiewa Street Albury NSW | WWW.TREMONTI.COM.AU

The Making Of: Cheese and 3-Stone Ring Combination

 Two of Karin Tremonti's most popular designs are her classically Swiss Cheese Ring design, and her chic and modern 3-Stone Ring design - perfect for standing out from the crowd and being the envy of all your friends!

Our talented shopgirl Erin - always intimately knowledgeable about the entire Tremonti collection and surrounded by Karin Tremonti's beautiful creations every weekend - recently decided that it was time to treat herself and recieve the ultimate in unique jewellery - a hand-crafted Tremonti design of her very own! Erin worked with Karin Tremonti to produce a unique design which combines both the Cheese AND 3-Stone Ring designs, with Gemstones from the Tremonti Collection that she chose herself - and the results are breathtaking. Today we'll take you through a special, behind-the-scenes look at the creative process for this amazing ring...

 All of Karin Tremonti's designs are hand-crafted at the studio-gallery workbench; a labour of love and passion for luxury, hand-crafted beauty. A special girl deserves 18 carat gold, and there's no better dreammaker than a Master Goldsmith - Karin was soon hard at work shaping this work of art and beauty.

The Cheese design must be kept delicate, yet unusual - no two Tremonti designs are the same. Karin Tremonti has an eye for detail and a skill that spans over 30 years.

 Naturally, every ring created by Karin Tremonti is carefully sized at the time of quotation, to make sure the dream Karin creates slips perfectly on to the finger it is designed for!

 

Once the ring has been finished and polished, it's easy to see its beautiful Gold tones - quite strong before its final brushed and polished finish!

 

 The Emerald weighs in at 0.85ct -a beautiful centerpiece. Karin Tremonti can work with her clients to create the ultimate luxury in colour combining - don't have an idea of the gemstone you want, or want to find a way to keep the budget down? There is an entire spectrum available at your fingertips in the Tremonti Studio-Gallery - these Greens and Pinks are perfect for Spring!

The final details are added, and we have our finished ring - a masterpiece in polished and brushed 18K gold with an unusual split center encrusted with natural Diamonds and Gemstones - impeccable taste and beautiful design.

 

Karin Tremonti loves her work and is overjoyed to create such unusual and valued designs, but she is happiest when her beautiful customers have a big smile on their face from her unique creations - Erin loved her ring. Fitting perfectly on the finger and complementing her own natural style, there is no better ending to this story than a happy Tremonti friend!

If you would like your own story created, visit us in-store from now until September 28 with no appointment necessary to talk to us about how we can make your dreams come true...

02 6041 6310 | 638 Kiewa Street Albury NSW | WWW.TREMONTI.COM.AU

Think Pink!

14ct White Gold with 0.41ct Pink Sapphire and highlighting sparkle of Pink and White Diamonds - $2,300

Pink is delicately feminine and an old colour favourite - perfect for Spring!

The colour pink is said to be the esoteric colour of the mystic number five, which is the number of power, inspiration and love healing - for example, five is the number of points in King Solomon's seal, which was a talisman of power and inspiration.

Tremonti has a great selection of designs featuring Pink Diamonds or Sapphires - be inspired today!

 

02 6041 6310 | 638 Kiewa Street Albury NSW | WWW.TREMONTI.COM.AU

The Lion's Share...

 Often a hidden gem in our Albury Jewelry Studio-Gallery, this amazing necklace is a star of two worlds...

 

It can also be worn as a bracelet combo!

Snug and comfortable to wear, this Tremonti masterpiece is perfect for those that want freedom in all parts of their life - don't feel like a necklace? Just push in the easy-to-use clasps and convert your neckwear into wristwear!

 The Seed Pearls and vibrant highlighting and complementary gemstones are a perfect pair, just in time for Spring! The vibrant Aqua tones are a Runway Staple for Spring Fashion, and the Seed Pearls lend an air of luxuriant delecacy to the whole affair - a classy combination.

 And we can't forget the Tremonti touch - unique and inspiring Lion clasps - worry no more about hiding your necklace and bracelet clasps - this jewellery is made to stand out - its clasp is easily its most amazing feature!

And all this for only $1900 - Natural Pearls, Vibrant Gemstones and Amazing Solid Silver Clasps in a unique design.

Want more?
02 6041 6310 | 638 Kiewa Street Albury NSW | WWW.TREMONTI.COM.AU

A Sapphire a Day

Weather you're celebrating your birthday this month, looking for a gift for a friends, or just something to give you the edge this Spring Racing Season, Sapphires (as the birthstone of September) are a surefire winner. At Tremonti we exclusively source only Natural Sapphires of all colours - hard, vibrant and beautiful, they make the perfect choice for any Jewellery. Read on to see just seven ways to brighten up your wardrobe with this versatile gemstone...

1. Blue Sapphire Ring - Classic Collection

$18,875.00

This Brilliant Blue 6.74ct Sapphire ring is truly remarkable. A piece that is as individual as you are; as classy and as spectacular as they come. Complemented by the dazzle of White Diamonds this ring will captivate your mind and spirit and become part of you.

Want to see more? View or Buy Online Here

2. Ceylon Marquis Pink Sapphire Ring - Sophisticated Collection

$16,250.00

  Futuristic and unconventional, the true beauty in this piece is undoubtedly the Natural Pink Ceylon Sapphire, which sits large on the finger at 4.22ct. Surprisingly vibrant in colour, this stone will tempt your senses. It is complemented exquistely by the brushed 18ct White Gold and Sparkling White Diamonds - if you have a passion for Natural Gemstones then this is the piece for you!

Want to see more? View or Buy Online Here

3. Octagonal Pink Sapphire Ring - Classic Collection

$6,600.00

Set in 18ct White and Rose Gold, the 0.61ct octagon shaped Pink Sapphire is surrounded by an array 0.31ct of of Pink Diamonds and complemented by the sparkle of 0.57ct of White Diamonds. This ring is perfect for any occasion; that special ring for an engagement, a wedding anniversary or a birthday. It is certain to be the perfect gift that will really put a sparkle in their eye.

Want to see more? View or Buy Online Here

4. Pink Sapphire Wave Ring - Original Collection

$2,310.00

Inspired by nature, this Solid 18ct Gold Wave Ring is a piece that will stand out in the crowd, and is as individual as you are. The Trillion- Cut Pink Sapphire adds a sense of absract design to this piece, making it stylish and contemporary - the sort of piece that can be worn every day! 

Want to see more? View or Buy Online Here

5. Orange 3-Sapphire Ring - Classic Collection

$2,500.00

Timeless in class, elegance and style, this impressive design is composed of rich 14ct Yellow Gold, enhancing the vivid colour of the Orange Sapphires. The vibrance of the Orange Sapphires (weighing in at 2.10ct) in this piece really prompt you to appriciate and value their beauty. Complemented by an array of brilliant White Diamonds (0.24ct) this piece will rouse emotions and tempt the senses. 

Want to see more? View or Buy Online Here

6.  Cognac Diamond and Australian Sapphire Ring - Sophisticated Collection

$6,400.00

Solid and comfortable, this unisex ring is designed to lock onto the finger, giving that extra sense of security. The rich colour of the 1.47ct Cognac Diamond and the vibrance of 1.29ct Green Australian Sapphires affords a fascinating and unforgettable experience for the person who wears it.

Want to see more? View or Buy Online Here

7. White Brushed Gold Sapphire 3-Stone Ring
 

$5,500.00

This ring is one of the newest additions to Karin Tremonti's Sophisticated Signature Collection. The classic tones of luxurious white gold emphasizes and enhances the clear, delicate quality of the Sapphires (a total carat weight of 1.61ct). The inside of the band is polished, giving you a comforting feeling of smooth gold against your finger - so easy to slip on you will never want to take it off! Also features a classically Tremonti "open" design, where the stones and the interlocking Gold of the Ring sits slightly apart, allowing a glimpse of your finger beneath for a decidedly modern touch. Perfect for those wanting to make a statement that will always match and never overpower - a startling stunner that could be yours today!

Want to see more? View or Buy Online Here

02 6041 6310 | 638 Kiewa Street Albury NSW | WWW.TREMONTI.COM.AU