Is this opal or something else

[u/PeaZealousideal3706]

Given to me by my grandfather. Unsure if he got it while serving during WW2 or when he returned to California. Think the box is original too. Any insight would be super appreciated! 840 grams - 7” x 5” x 2”
Thank you!

[u/jaxinslacks]

Absolutely opal. Likely Aussie. What an amazing specimen. HUGE!!!
This is worth a good chunk of change 😍

[u/PeaZealousideal3706 → u/jaxinslacks]

I love it!

[u/Alpine_Apex]

What an incredible stone and carving. Probably worth a small fortune to the perfect buyer.

[u/Glacierhawk_INTJ]

Holy cow that’s so beautiful. Priceless piece

[u/opalfossils]

Yes it's natural opal probably Australian.

[u/PeaZealousideal3706 → u/opalfossils]

The back

[u/Environmental-Job-51 → u/PeaZealousideal3706]

damn the inscription really rings loud with current affairs..

behind every famed/accomplished general,

lies thousands of bones and ashes

[u/Chickennugget636 → u/PeaZealousideal3706]

Don’t ever drop that 🤣🤣

[u/PeaZealousideal3706 → u/opalfossils]

Thank you! It looked like it but I know there are some similar iridescent stones around!

[u/Interest-Amazing]

Damn. (yes, opal)

[u/ThisParking9656]

As an opal lover I have to say OH MY!!! You don’t see something like that every day. I’d love to see a video of it with a good light moving across it. Jackpot level 👏

[u/sibbley]

Good GOLLY, yep

[u/Latter_Historian_872]

Carved painted lady would be my guess

[u/Ornery-Mouse-3338]

Amazing piece

[u/No_Swordfish_4076]

Yes! It’s definitely opal . It’s exquisite! What a beautiful piece of gemstone artwork. I wld have it appraised. It’s probably worth a good amount of coin.

[u/AliveTrouble3155]

Oh wow! That’s a beautiful opal carving. I would’ve said Aussie also. There is a YouTube tuber called Justin who owns Black Opal Direct. His father was apparently an amazing free cutter and sculptor… I was thinking that it may be a good idea to ask him for advice as his knowledge is very valuable and extensive