Flame Opals, Sydney

Mr Cudlipp I purchased a (loose stone) Lightening Ridge Black Opal (5.81 tcw, stock # WLA 5767) from Flame Opals on George Street, Sydney this past Summer. You and Lucy Nicita sold me the beautiful stone for A$12,500 (exchange rate at the time about A$1.10 to US$1,00 I believe) and you gave me an appraisal for replacement value of A$18,950.00. I was a little skeptical about your appraisal but you seemed like an "honest, nice guy" and I trusted you. I had the stone appraised (for insurance) in the US (last week) and the opal appraised for US$25,000.00. Thank you! I will definitely come by and see you two in "The Rocks" during my next visit to Sydney! You see, trust pays off! I can't wait to do business with you again. P.A. Colorado, USA

I thoroughly enjoyed speaking with Mr. Cudlip and learning about the finest opal pieces I have ever seen. I assess Mr. Cudlip to be an honest gentleman and a reputable businessperson who makes high quality opal jewelry available without fear. His sales staff is friendly and they will not pressure clients into a purchase. The opals sell themselves. My wife was nearly knocked over when she received her pendant and I cannot wait for her to see the shop and meet Mr. Cudlip on our next visit. The nice people at Flame Opals are outstanding hosts to those who visit Sydney.

After 3 days of wondering around downtown Sydney looking to buy opals for my wife, we found nothing but scams, tourist traps, fake opals and doubles - until we found Flame Opals. What a relief! A small shop with quality merchandise in a wide price range and knowledgeable staff. In short order we were able to pick a beautiful pendant for about $200. Later we also bought some cheap doubles in Chinatown for about $15-20 each for the many relatives back home.