Frequently Asked Questions
Where does your opal come from?
Our opal comes from Coober Pedy, South Australia, one of the world's most renowned opal mining regions.
Watson Opals is a three-generation family mining business, with our family mining opal in Coober Pedy since 1976.
Is your opal genuine?
Yes. We sell genuine natural opal sourced from Coober Pedy.
We aim to clearly photograph, film and describe each piece so you can see exactly what you are purchasing.
Are the photos of the actual opal I will receive?
Yes. Unless clearly stated otherwise, the photographs and videos shown on an individual opal listing are of the actual piece you are purchasing.
Because every natural opal is unique, once an individual stone is sold, that exact piece is no longer available.
Why can opal look different in different lighting?
Opal can appear different depending on the type, direction and intensity of light.
We aim to represent our opal as accurately as possible through our photographs and videos. However, colours may appear slightly different in person depending on lighting conditions and your device or screen settings.
Does natural opal have inclusions or imperfections?
It can.
Natural opal may contain potch, sand, inclusions, natural marks and other characteristics formed underground. These are part of the natural material and will vary from piece to piece.
We aim to show and describe significant characteristics of each piece as clearly as possible.
Do you ship throughout Australia?
Yes. We ship orders throughout Australia using tracked delivery services.
Please see our Shipping & Delivery page for further information.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. We offer international shipping to many countries.
Available shipping services may depend on the destination, order value and any applicable postal or customs restrictions.
International customers may also be responsible for customs duties, import taxes or other charges imposed by their country.
How long does it take for my order to be dispatched?
We aim to prepare and dispatch orders within 1–3 business days after payment has been confirmed.
Delivery times after dispatch will depend on your location and selected shipping service.
Will I receive tracking?
Tracking will be provided where available. Once your order has been dispatched, you will receive the relevant shipping and tracking information.
How is my opal packaged?
Every order is carefully packaged to help protect the opal during transit.
We understand the uniqueness and value of every piece we uncover and take care when preparing each order for delivery.
Can I return an opal?
We accept eligible returns in accordance with our Returns & Refunds Policy.
For change-of-mind purchases, please contact us within 14 days of receiving your order. Conditions apply, so please read our full Returns & Refunds Policy before purchasing.
Can I cut, polish or set an opal and then return it?
No change-of-mind return will be accepted once an opal has been cut, polished, set, altered or otherwise modified after purchase.
This does not exclude any rights you may have under Australian Consumer Law.
How can I contact Watson Opals?
If you have a question about an opal, your order or anything else, please visit our Contact Us page.
For questions about a particular piece, please include the opal name or product number.
Watson Opals
Coober Pedy, South Australia
Direct from our mine to you.