Massive opal sells for nearly $144K at Alaska auction

The Americus Australis opal, which weighs more than 11,800 carats, sold for $143,750 on February 20 at Alaska Premier Auctions & Appraisals. It is billed as one of the largest gem-quality opals in existence. Image courtesy of Alaska Premier Auctions & Appraisals and LiveAuctioneers.
The Americus Australis opal, which weighs more than 11,800 carats, sold for $143,750 on February 20 at Alaska Premier Auctions & Appraisals. It is billed as one of the largest gem-quality opals in existence. Image courtesy of Alaska Premier Auctions & Appraisals and LiveAuctioneers.

JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) – A gemstone, billed as one of the largest gem-quality opals in existence, was sold for $143,750 at auction in Alaska on February 20. The opal, dubbed the Americus Australis, weighs more than 11,800 carats, according to the auction house Alaska Premier Auctions & Appraisals. It also has a long history.

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