I had the opportunity to “cut stones” this past Sunday. I cut a piece of Ethiopian Opal and shaped it into a pear shape cabochon. It was so much fun! I learned so much about the stone too. Ethiopian opal is porous and soaks up a lot of water during the lapidary process. It is finally dry today and showing all its beautiful flashes! I hope I get to learn about every gem this way 🙂 I regret not taking a before pic. Next time!!!