Lightning Ridge
Curated by Maggie Liu · Updated:
Lightning Ridge, in New South Wales, Australia, is a major source of black opal.
About Lightning Ridgeextended article
What it is known for
Lightning Ridge's deposits yield precious black opal — dark-bodied stone with intense play-of-colour — the most valuable type of opal.
What collectors look for
Black opal with vivid, well-patterned play-of-colour is the prize, commanding the highest opal prices.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Lightning Ridge?
Lightning Ridge is a mineral locality in New South Wales, Australia. It lies at approximately 29.4300°S, 147.9700°E. Elevation is about 165 m.
What minerals are found at Lightning Ridge?
Signature minerals from Lightning Ridge include Opal. The locality lies in New South Wales, Australia, and each mineral links to a full reference entry with formula, crystal system, and collector notes.
What is Lightning Ridge known for?
Lightning Ridge, in New South Wales, Australia, is a major source of black opal.
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