Solid Polished Opal
The continent best known for opal mining is Australia. Since Australian opal mining and related do-it-yourself mining opportunities are well documented elsewhere, we'll turn our attention to a lesser known opal mining area in Mexico. There are many opal mines in Mexico, but those offering easy access for rock hounds intent on cracking open their own specimens are in the state of Jalisco, not far from Guadalajara.
What to Look For
In the world of Mexican opals, the king of gems is the "fire opal." As geological luck would have it, roughly 100 million years ago the area around what is now known as Magdalena, Jalisco, Mexico had an ideal mix of volcanic rock, silica, iron oxide and moisture to form these beautiful gemstones. It is the presence of minute amounts of iron oxide (rust) in the mix that creates their stunning color. There are a number of shops in Magdalena where you can see examples of these fine gems as well as other varieties, each attractive in its own way.
Where to Look
From Guadalajara, head north on highway 15, being sure to take the toll road (marked "Cuota"). About 20 miles (32 km) beyond the start of the toll road you will pass the Tequila exit (a story for another day). In another 10 miles (16 km), take the Magdalena exit. The exit is a hard right and you will then take a hard left at the first junction, which puts you on the non-toll version of highway 15. It is about a mile and a half (2.4 km) to the church and square that mark the center of town. The highway becomes Calle Independencia (Independence Street) as you come into town. Shops specializing in opals are found along that street and on streets around the square.
Break Some Rocks
To get hands-on opal mining experience, take a tour of an area mine. Among the best known tours, and one I've experienced on visits with family and friends, is one conducted by Opalos de México. Their guides are friendly and speak English. The tour begins with a van or pickup truck ride to "La Lupita" mine, about five and a half miles (9 km) out of town and up into the mountains. Plan to be at the store by 9:00 in the morning and be prepared for a bumpy ride.
The mining operation is of the open pit variety, so no worries about entering dark, damp mine shafts. You will be provided with a miner's hammer and goggles. A guide will show you spot rocks that are worth cracking. He will explain how opals are formed, what qualities affect their value, and break open a promising rock. Your chances of finding gem quality material are slim, but the experience is memorable. The tour includes a visit to a mining museum with the requisite shop where you can buy souvenirs of your adventure.
Contact Information
Opalos de México
Calle Independencia #115
Magdalena, Jalisco, Mexico CP 46470
Telephone:
Within Mexico: 01 (386) 74-404-47
From the U.S. and Canada: 01152 (386) 744-0447
Tags: opal mining, best known, Calle Independencia, iron oxide, Jalisco Mexico, known opal
