Fossicking, gemstones and opal mining
Opals and gemstones in Queensland
Queensland is known for its rich mineral resources and is a key player in the world of opals and gemstones. Our state's diverse geological landscape hosts a rich variety of precious and semi-precious stones, attracting opal and gem hunters and enthusiasts from all over the world.
Queensland's opals and gemstones play an important role in the regional economies where these resources are found. Opals, sapphires and other gemstones, attract visitors who seek the thrill of discovery and the beauty of nature’s treasures.
Main locations of opals and gemstones
Central Queensland gemfields – Sapphire, Emerald, and Rubyvale
The Central Queensland gemfields start about 270 kms west of Rockhampton in Sapphire, Emerald and Rubyvale. These towns are known for their rich deposits of sapphires, emeralds (green gemstones), and rubies (rare red gemstone).
Winton – the home of the boulder opal
Winton is part of our western opal fields and is located about 1,350 kms north-west of Brisbane. It is famous for its precious boulder opals that have become one of the most highly prized opals on the market. WInton attracts both small-scale miners and amateur fossickers. The unique formation of boulder opal occurs when silica fills cracks and voids in ironstone, creating beautiful and colourful gemstones.
Quilpie – the heart of opal country
Quilpie is part of our western opal fields and is located about 950 kms west of Brisbane. It is known for producing high-quality boulder opals. The town is in the heart of Queensland’s Channel Country and offers a rustic charm where visitors can fossick for opals or tour active mining sites.
Yowah – unique opal varieties
Yowah is part of our western opal fields, located about 1,050 km west of Brisbane. It is renowned for its distinctive Yowah nut opals, which form within small ironstone concretions and display unique, intricate patterns when cut. The area is home to the rare Black Gate opals, known for their dark, almost black background, and vibrant flashes of colour.
Economic benefits
Queensland’s opal and gemstone regions play a vital role in supporting local economies, small businesses, and fostering long-term economic stability by driving visitors and tourism to these areas.
More information
- Learn about the small-scale mining code.
- Read the opal and gem miners handbook (PDF, 7MB).
- Explore our opal and gemstone regions.
- Last updated
- 14 July 2025
- Last reviewed
- 14 July 2025