The 22nd edition of the Australian Opal Exhibition will be hosted at the Southport Sharks venue for a third time across Wednesday and Thursday (6-7 August).
An extensive collection of Australia’s most impressive opal and opal jewellery will be on display, and president Janice Evert said the meeting of leading opal miners and wholesalers with retailers was an event not to be missed.
“This is an event which celebrates one of Australia’s most treasured industries - the opal industry - right here on the Gold Coast,” Evert tells Jeweller.
“Australian opal stands among the world’s most prestigious gemstones, and we are fortunate to call this remarkable stone our own.
“Its journey from the earth to the global market is made possible by the dedication of many: the determination and resilience of our miners, the craftsmanship of our cutters, jewellers, and manufacturers, and the insight and expertise of our wholesalers and retailers.
“All of these facets come together at the Australian Opal Exhibition. It’s a pleasure to welcome everyone and to continue this proud tradition of gathering as an industry, year after year.”
The Australian Opal Association will also host its annual general meeting at 7.30 am at Southport Sharks on Thursday, with the committee eager to welcome new members.
The enduring passion for opal was recently on full display at the 2025 Australian Opal Awards in Lightning Ridge, with more than 260 people attending the event.
The winner of the Open Prestige Jewellery Award was Nadia Neuman of Mondial, with her piece The Celestine. The handmade 18-carat gold Andamooka Opal necklace features a 20-carat freeform, double-sided gemstone from South Australia. The Celestine will be on display at The Australian Opal Exhibition.
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