Readers will find fascinating details about the discovery, whereabouts, and value of famous opals, from such classic specimens as the Burning of Troy Opal to the Bonanza Opal and other more recent discoveries. Finally, the book surveys today's major opal-producing areas and provides current information on opal occurrence worldwide. Punctuating the text are useful tables, extensive glossaries of opal types and opal-related terms, and beautiful photographs that capture the essence and mystery of this most exquisite stone.

New edition with added chapters and sections. Provides all the information necessary for complete analysis and evaluation of any opal from a true gem. Properly identify opals from all over the world and what characteristics affect value. Breathtaking color photos throughout.

Join one princess as she embarks on a journey that will define her, her kingdom, and the legacy she’s destined to create. “Because the lands themselves are rich with magic, deep in the earth, all people in Egriden are capable of magic.” One might expect a princess’s life to be a fairytale, but for sixteen-year-old Inise, it’s not that easy. Every day is a relentless cycle of lessons and training, all to prepare the future queen. As if that wasn't enough, a terrible truth hangs over her—queens wield unimaginable magic, a gift this princess has yet to demonstrate. When tragedy strikes, her loyal friends help her escape the kingdom and her ambitious uncle Vischant. But the outside world brings no reprieve because in order to claim the throne, she must manifest four elemental stones and master their power. As Inise grapples with her purpose and duty, she encounters a found family better than one she could have ever dreamed of, including Pashendra, a mysterious fae who claims she and Inise have a special connection. Will Inise muster the strength to overcome her uncle’s malevolent ambitions and stop the ruin of her realm?

A young Irishman's journey in the land of untold riches... The Opal Seekers is a rich and vibrant novel of triumph and loss, and the ambition of those who carved out an existence for themselves in the beautiful but unforgiving land of Australia. The perfect read for fans of Colleen McCullough and Tricia McGill. In 1898 poverty threatens to destroy Trella Court's beloved family. She is left with no choice: her brother-in-law, Brodie, must leave home so that there is one less mouth to feed. Bitter with resentment, Brodie travels to Dublin where he stumbles upon a wealthy employer who offers him passage to Australia, the land of untold riches. In Brisbane, Brodie is taken in by the owner of Fairlea cattle station. But before they leave he catches sight of a beautiful opal necklace glistening in a jeweller's window and vows that one day he will go in search of the dazzling stones and make his fortune. At Fairlea, Brodie finds favour when he saves the owner's life, but Vivien Holloway, the spoilt mistress, causes trouble when her harmless flirtation with Brodie turns into a passionate affair. Soon Brodie is looking for a way out of Fairlea and he finds his escape in the hunt for opals... What readers are saying about The Opal Seekers: 'A delightful tale of hard work and suffering, love and loss' 'An outstanding story and one I couldn't put down' 'Enthralling from start to finish'