Australian Opal Gallery
EST.1964
ABOUT US
Our name
Inspiration for our company’s name is two-fold.
First, world renowned authority on opal, scientist, and historian Len Cram called this magnificent stone
“the Queen of gems”. Why? Because the stunning display of fiery color is breath-taking like a queen in all her royal pomp and elegance. Not only does she win the heart of any king, but everyone who has the privilege of seeing her beauty. So it is with opals.
Interestingly, opal is also a relatively soft stone like the skin of a true queen.
Second, most opal that is mined in Australia is found in the Queensland region. The “Queen of gems” is
born in Queensland. Welcome to Queen Stone Opal! Let us be your guide as you discover more about this beautiful and truly unique gem.
Kathy Karpaty President
Our story
Our family business has been a premier wholesale company and international importer of opals for over 50 years. We are proud to combine a wealth of history and expertise to bring you the best that opals have to offer. Tibor Shelley, our company founder is one of the key players of the opal legacy in Australia. World famous opal historian Len Cram speaks very highly of Shelley’s knowledge, connections, and great impact on the opal world in his book, “A Journey with Color: A History of South Australian Opal 1840-2005”. It has been an honor and privilege for us to be mentored by this amazing man! Our expertise at Queen Stone Opal is based on this rich heritage that Shelley has generously shared with us. We are proud to be part of his continuing legacy. Our company has been one of the largest opal suppliers in Asia, Europe, and the United States for over half a century. Now we want to share our expertise and our exquisite opal jewelry creations with everyone, not just jewelers. Consider this an invitation to enjoy this magnificent gem for yourself.
Tibor Shelley Original Founder
Our integrity
The legacy of founder Tibor Shelley has been our inspiration. His motto was: “Business is always about honesty and integrity, unless my client is satisfied, I have not succeeded.” This is the founding principle behind Queen Stone Opal. Our passion is your satisfaction!
Our passion
We passionately love opal! You might even say we’re opalholic – we breath, speak, think, and dream opal. Gold fever or opal fever, once it gets into your blood you can never get it out. After 52 years we are just as passionate as ever! For us this business is not just a business, not just a job, it’s our drive. We wake up with excitement and anticipation every morning, inspired to be the best. To be able to do what we love and love what we do makes us feel like the luckiest people in the world. Here is our commitment to our enduring legacy: “We always create what is extraordinary and what is excellent!”
Our quality
Our opals have been among the highest quality for over 52 years. Much hard work has earned us the privilege of buying some of the best quality organic Australian opals available: remarkable handmade Australian opal jewelry. Each opal we sell has been carefully handpicked and inspected. Each one is a matchless work of art. We make only one unique creation from every single opal except for a few selections. Manufacturers that we choose are highly respected, top-rated companies in the jewelry world. We are honored to have some of the rarest opal jewelry as part of our selection.
Our selection & prices
Our team has been fully committed over the last half-century to importing an extensive inventory from Australia and Hong Kong so that are always able to offer the best selection and variety of Australian opal jewelry at an unbeatable price. Nobody can beat our prices because we are a family-run business, we do not have multi-million dollar buildings, and we do not have a middle man. This is why we are able to share our profit with you.
Our pledge
“From our heart to yours, may our opals bring something special into your life as valuable and unique as you!”
WHY SHOULD YOU BUY FROM US?
Twelve things to consider when choosing an opal dealer
Our mission statement: "Our passion is your satisfaction!"
1. Our company is a family business, not just a multi-million dollar impersonal machine. That’s why we pledge to serve you like our family members.
2. From the beginning in 1964, our business has been based on our founder’s philosophy: “Business is always about honesty, integrity, and making sure our clients are always satisfied.” After 52 years this is still our commitment.
3. We know you work hard (like we do) to earn your money. That's why you deserve the best. Our family team pledges to provide you with the best value, the best quality, the best selection, the best possible price, and the best service to everyone. We are excited to provide the opportunity to purchase genuine Australian opal jewelry at reasonable prices. We make every effort to help you make your dreams come true.
4. We do not have multi-million dollar buildings, networks, and middlemen. We do not have huge, overhead expenses, so we joyfully share our savings with you.
5. Our business has operated for over 50 years. Our reputation is spotless, and our company is highly respected in the gem world.
6. Half-a-century in business has provided us with tremendous experience, knowledge, and contacts. That’s why we are experts in our field. We specialize in Australian opals, which are the finest in the world! Our founder Tibor Shelley, has earned the title “Professor of the opal” in Australia, Asia, and United States.
7. We have a large, top-quality inventory that came directly from Australia - Lightning Ridge, Queensland, Mintabie, Andamooka, and Coober Pedy. Our selection gives you the largest variety of Australian opal jewelry to choose from. We have solid black opal, boulder opal, light opal, crystal opal, Andamooka Matrix opal, and Jowa- Koroit opal.
8. Our family team wants the privilege of becoming a part of the excitement when you choose your jewelry from us. We feel so honored to help you to find the best gift to create not only an unforgettable moment for your loved one, but a lifetime treasure for them. We want to make your dreams come true!
9. We have a 30-day money back guarantee! If you are not happy or satisfied with your opal jewelry for any reason, no questions asked, we will return your money provided that the jewelry is returned in its original condition. (See return policy)
10. FREE shipping for purchases over $250.00 (USD).
11. FREE education is at your fingertips. We give you the necessary tools, tips, and knowledge to make wise decisions as you purchase the jewelry you desire as well as tips for preserving your jewelry. You will find on our website detailed information about Australian opals so you can become a beginning opal expert absolutely free! Search “What you need to know: Choosing your opal jewelry.”
12. We have ongoing special discounts all the time! Click now.
Happiness is helping you make your dreams come true! May we share your joy and the love of opals.
With heartfelt thanks,
The Team at Queen Stone Opal