Opals are unique gemstones known for their fascinating play of colors. But the journey from the earth's crust to the finished piece of jewelry is long and arduous. Mining opals requires special techniques and a deep understanding of geological conditions (--> How are opals formed? ).

Before a mining company even begins mining, careful planning and evaluation must take place. In this article, you will learn how opals are found and mined , what machines and techniques are used, and what climatic challenges the workers have to overcome.

Underground mining is a far more sophisticated method used when the opals are located in deeper rock layers. This technique requires special equipment and careful planning to ensure the safety of the miners.

Process of underground mining:

1. Shaft construction: First, an access shaft is dug into the ground to reach the deeper rock layers. This is done by using hydraulic drilling equipment and explosives.
2. Expansion and securing: After the shaft is drilled, it is secured with supports and bracing to prevent collapse.
3. Material extraction: The excavated rock is brought to the surface by conveyor belts or elevators, where it is further processed.

Machines used: drilling rigs, explosives, conveyor belts, cooling and ventilation systems

Climatic challenges:
In underground mining, temperatures are often constant at around 21 degrees Celsius, which is comfortable for workers. However, the humidity in the tunnels is very high, making breathing difficult and increasing the risk of mold growth. Therefore, effective ventilation systems are crucial to control air quality and prevent health problems.

Despite the use of modern machines, manual labor still plays an important role in opal mining. Manual methods are used, especially in smaller mines or for particularly valuable finds, in order to extract the opals with as little damage as possible.

Process of handwork:

1. Manual digging: Often, workers start with pickaxes and shovels to specifically search for opal veins. This method is preferred when the opals are located in sensitive or difficult-to-access layers.
2. Fine work: The opals are carefully removed from the rock using chisels and hammers to avoid damage.
3. Screening: The material is sifted by hand to find valuable opals and separate them from unusable material.

Equipment used: shovels and pickaxes, chisels and hammers, as well as handcarts

Climatic challenges:
Since manual work often takes place in small, narrow shafts or outdoors, workers are exposed to both the extreme temperatures of open-pit mining and the humid conditions of underground mining. The physical exertion is high and the working conditions can be particularly stressful as there is often no ventilation system for the small shafts and so the humidity is extremely high.

The small but famous town of Lightning Ridge is just under 800 km west of Sydney. This is where the rare black opal is mined. The people live with the hope of great fortune. For them, opal mining is not just a job, but a way of life. They love the risk, combined with the possibility of one day making that one big find that will change their lives. Intermediate successes, such as when a shimmering rainbow suddenly appears in the rock, increase the excitement. At that moment, no one knows how big the vein really is. Every further careful strike reveals more and more and nourishes the hope of the really big find.

In the barren landscape of the outback, they spend their days under the hot sun or in the cool, damp underground shafts. Every blow of the pickaxe could bring about a breakthrough - or not. But the uncertainty is exactly what appeals to them. It is the promise of freedom, self-determination and the constant possibility of completely changing one's life with a single happy moment.

The community in Lightning Ridge is close-knit because everyone here shares the same passion and the same aspirations. Despite the hardships and uncertainties of everyday life, their belief in great happiness remains unbroken. It is the search for the dazzling gemstone that drives their hearts and determines their path in life.

But the path to opal is not always straight. Due to the strict, complex applications and the sometimes high upfront costs, some miners decide to build their mine directly under their house, for example - without permits and often with inadequate protection. These illegal buildings can be risky and dangerous. But they see it as the easiest way to pursue their passion without having to overcome the bureaucratic and financial hurdles. It is an expression of determination and an indomitable will to find great happiness, whatever the cost.