The newly discovered Ethiopian opal find near Delanta in Welo Province is quickly becoming known for some of the most impressive jewelry grade rough in the opal world. Delanta-area mines are producing a remarkable material that has incredibly bright plays of color and amazing harlequin patterns. In the last 2 years, the new Ethiopian opal has proven to be just as strong and dependable as fine Australian opal.

In contemporary times, opal mining in Ethiopia began in 1994. Since then, the Ethiopian opal has developed a reputation for being unstable – meaning it has a tendency to crack or craze. In general, Ethiopian opal has been considered as an unreliable investment for gem cutters looking for saleable opal.

As with all opal, some is more stable than others. Regional characteristics do make a difference. Material from one province or geological formation will vary greatly from another. The new Ethiopian Welo must not be confused with other opals mined in other parts of Ethiopia. Found in the same type geological formations as the Australian opal and with similar hardness to Brazilian opal, the new Welo has proven to be both reliable and striking – a true precious opal.

In 2010 after a two-year wait for experienced gem cutters to master the special techniques required to properly handle the new opal, skepticism and concerns about the viability of Welo opal were put to rest at the Tucson gem show. Brilliant honeycomb harlequin and brightly polished and cut Ethiopian Welo opal caused tremendous excitement. Since then, the Internet has become flooded with an increasing number of videos showing off this sparkling and beautifully fashioned jewelry-grade opal.

Jewelry grade Ethiopian Welo rough opal is available from wholesale suppliers and importers in wholesale lots that is currently priced below comparable Australian opal. Most wholesale dealers are anticipating price increases as more jewelers and consumers become aware of the Welo opal’s spectacular beauty and availability in the coming months. Another factor that will eventually affect price is the Ethiopian government’s vision to establish private sector mining as outlined in its 2009 National Report On Mining (delivered to the UN). Currently only authorized and licensed farmer co-operatives are allowed to mine opal – a situation that will ultimately change in time.

Wholesale jewelry grade Ethiopian Welo Opal rough from Delanta-area mines is available from Anil B. Dholakia, Inc. – gem merchants.