The Australian Opal Mining industry has some of the most sustainable and ethical mining practices in the world. The majority of opal mines are owned and operated by very small, family businesses or partnerships, many of whom are second and third-generation miners. 

The opal mines in Australia are run as small businesses and abide by the Australian Mining Act which includes sustainable and environmental guidelines.

Australia produces the best opal in the world, namely, black opal, boulder opal, crystal opal and white opal. The opal is found in the harsh environment of Australia’s outback, where summer temperatures can reach 50 degrees Celsius for many months at a time.

The regions where opal is found are usually barren, very dry and dusty and have many natural dangers. Despite the difficulties of working in such a remote environment, hundreds of miners and their families brave the Australian Outback to dig deep into the earth searching for the Queen of Gems, the Opal!