Lightning Ridge, Finch Co., New South Wales, Australia

Located approximately 46 miles North of Walgett.
Located in the parish of Wallangulla.
Note: Lightning Ridge in NOT located in the New England region.

Mining of black opal commenced in 1901.

Opal is mined by underground and open cut methods at depths ranging from near surface up to 25 metres underground. The host rock is the Cretaceous Griman Creek Formation which is predominantly composed of freshwater (rarely estuarine?) claystones and sandstones.

Opalised fossils occur sporadically.

References:
- Smith, E. & R. (1999): Black Opal Fossils of Lightning Ridge - Treasures from the Rainbow Billabong, Kangaroo Press, East Roseville.
- Cram, L. (2004): A Journey with Colour, Vol 2, Part B - A History of Lightning Ridge Opal 1873-2003, Len Cram.

- Australian Opal Centre web site http://www.australianopalcentre.com/