Renowned New York City’s jewelry appraiser and gemologist Travis Lejman shared his favorite colored gemstone, Opal, with DCGIA members.

Travis has continued Dr. Paul Downing’s work in opal grading and has presented past workshops with the NAJA on opals. Travis discussed grading techniques for opal grading and showed DCGIA a variety of opals from around the world.  From Lightning Ridge to Mexico to Ethiopia.

The below video covers Travis’ powerpoint presentation. Pause and start as necessary to read the many slides included.

Look for flash of color in both light and dark to determine the SATURATION of FIRE in the opal.

Here is a opal rough shared by a DCGIA member.

Along with cash from a 50/50 Raffle, prices included an Ethiopian Opal (valued at $65) and a number of Gem & Gemology Magazines with Topics on Opal. There was also opal jewelry available.

National Association of Jewelry Appraisers members were also on hand!

DCGIA thanks Travis for providing an informative and fun evening to our chapter!

Slides by Travis Lejman

Summary by Charles Marts

Photos by Melanie Marts