Lightning Ridge Opal Coming Soon
Columbia Gem House is proud to announce an exclusive collaboration with Cheal Opal, an Australian-based brand renowned for its legacy of family mining and artistry, with some of their work featured on Discovery Channel’s popular Outback Opal Hunters. Together, they will introduce a new line of calibrated Lightning Ridge opals, setting a new standard for both quality and artistry in the industry.
This partnership brings together two family-run, multigenerational businesses that share a deep commitment to ethical practices and the creation of exceptional gemstones that share a story. Columbia Gem House, with decades of innovative gemstone cutting experience, and Cheal Opal celebrated for sourcing some of the finest opals from Australia's iconic Lightning Ridge, will work closely to deliver a stunning collection of calibrated opal. This collection will showcase the unique beauty of these opals while ensuring they are produced in a way that supports designers who require material in volume – without compromising their dedication to responsible sourcing and production.
A Shared Vision of Quality and Ethics
Columbia Gem House’s Founder and President, Eric Braunwart, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership:
"We are thrilled to partner with Cheal Opal, a brand we have great respect for, both in terms of their artistry and shared values. Columbia Gem House and Cheal Opal both have rich family histories, and this collaboration represents the perfect synergy. With over forty years of experience in responsible sourcing and cutting colored gemstones, our expertise aligns seamlessly with Cheal Opal’s mining heritage and craftsmanship. We’re excited to offer a product that combines exceptional quality with responsible production."
Cheal Opal’s Managing Director, Oscar Cheal, echoed these sentiments, adding:
"This partnership with Columbia Gem House feels like a natural extension of our vision. Both of our families have been dedicated to preserving the legacy of gemstones that tell a story, and now we have the opportunity to create something truly special together. The calibrated Lightning Ridge opals we will feature in this collection are a testament to the unique beauty of the region, and our shared commitment to sustainability ensures that every piece we produce upholds the highest standards."
A New Era for Opal Craftsmanship
As the industry continues to evolve, Columbia Gem House and Cheal Opal are setting the benchmark for future collaborations. Their shared focus on transparency, responsible sourcing, and handcrafted excellence aims to lead the way in creating unparalleled calibrated opal pieces, while advocating for ethical practices throughout the entire process.
This new collection is slated to debut in February 2025 at the Tucson Gem Shows. It will be available through Columbia Gem House for U.S. distribution and Cheal Opal for Australian distribution. The collection will also be available for purchase from either brand to international customers. Opal enthusiasts, designers, and makers can look forward to a unique collaboration that blends generations of expertise with a shared commitment to excellence and responsibility.
