#Japan #Tokyo #Bene Ginza #Black Opal #Lightning Ridge

The Cosmic Exhibition of Black Opals

From September 26 to 28, 2023, the BENE Ginza Salon will host a unique exhibition that invites you to encounter the deep mysteries of the cosmos through the exquisite beauty of Lightning Ridge black opals. Known for their vibrant colors and enchanting luster, these opals tell a story that goes back millions of years to the Cretaceous period, an era when dinosaurs roamed the Earth.

Lightning Ridge black opals are sedimentary gemstones, formed over a staggering period of approximately five million years under low-temperature conditions below 100 degrees Celsius. This slow accumulation of silica results in their remarkable characteristics, setting them apart from volcanic opals from regions such as Mexico and Ethiopia, which are formed at higher temperatures and are typically porous.

One of the standout features of Australian Lightning Ridge black opals is their durability. Unlike many gemstones, they do not absorb sweat or moisture due to their non-porous nature, making them a remarkably strong choice for jewelry enthusiasts. While it's common to hear that opals are fragile or require careful handling with water, the truth is that black opals contain around 5% moisture—significantly less than the 12% moisture content found in Mexican opals.

Nestled in Australia’s arid desert landscape, the formation of Lightning Ridge black opals is a testament to the harsh conditions they endure, combining heat and dryness over the eons. This resilience gives them an intriguing cosmic perspective that mirrors the vastness of space.

The BENE Ginza Salon has established a wonderful relationship with a company that owns mines in Lightning Ridge, allowing us to directly acquire the finest black opals from the region. Each piece we carry is a rarity, as these non-crystalline gems are uniquely formed from particles created by the blending of silica and water.

During this special exhibition, visitors will not only have the opportunity to explore the deep allure of black opals but also experience a unique offering. For each black opal selected, our talented designers will create a custom design sketch as a gift, allowing you to take home a piece of art inspired by the universe encapsulated in the gemstone.

With October being the birthstone month for opals and their significance as the guardian stone for Scorpios, these gems symbolize happiness and hope. Each black opal is unique—their deep, interstellar charm is truly universal. The curated selection at BENE Ginza Salon captures this essence, making each piece a small universe.

We invite you to cherish the opportunity to engage with these cosmic gems, appreciating their craftsmanship and the stories they hold. Let's together explore the beauty and mystery of black opals this September at BENE Ginza Salon.

For inquiries, please contact BENE Ginza Salon directly at 03-5565-0750 or via email at [email protected]. Reservations can also be made through our inquiry form. We look forward to welcoming you to this memorable occasion.

— Chie Naito, Owner of BENE Ginza Salon