Of all opals in the world, the finest gemstones of the highest quality are found in Australia. That's why this precious stone is Australia's National gemstone. Opal's popularity grows every day due to its fascinating beauty. Many people think that nothing in this world is ever black and white. When it comes to opals - this opinion may not be true.

Some say that black opal is "The mother of all gemstones", and they say it for a good reason. The black opal earned this title because it’s the only stone that has every other gemstone’s color in it and Australia is the only place in the world where black opals can be found. They display the most vivid colors because of the dark body tone. This gem looks as if the whole universe is placed into just one stone. The majority of the high quality black opals are mined in Lightning Ridge area of New South Wales. Red fire black opal is the most valuable and the rarest of all. The black opals’ body tone index goes from N1 for the darkest to N4 for the lighter grey. Some black opals display every color of the rainbow, while the others show only blue and green. If you are planning an investment into the black opal market, don't hesitate because the value of the black opal increases by more than 20 percent a year. The black opal is a favorite gemstone among the opal collecting enthusiasts and some of the top quality pieces can cost up to $3,000 per carat.

Origin of the white opal is none other country than Australia. Surprised? Majority of the white opal can be found in the mines of Coober Pedy and Andamooka. White opals also go by the name "milk" or "milky" opals and they may be designated N7, N8, or N9 on the scale of body tone. Like any other opal, the white opal can show spectacular play of color but, due to its pale body tone, it is sometimes harder for other colors to stand out. Predominantly of the light-colored body, this gemstone can be white, yellow or cream. It is believed that the white opal helps magnify powerful and positive emotions. Unlike the black opals which are very rare, the white opals are pretty common and for that reason they are of a lesser value than the black opals. High quality white opals can reach prices of around $1,000 per carat. Value of the opal is mostly determined by its pattern and brightness.

In conclusion to this story, one more question can be posed - which opal is better, black or white? There is no correct answer. It all depends on your preferences and budget. Some people would say that the red fire in black opal is better, the other people would disagree. As long as it is an opal, it doesn't matter if it's black or white.