Ridiculous ignorance from those who made comments re money. They clearly havent watched many of your videos!!! You're the whole package Justin, a master artisan, family man, with multigenerational family tradition in opal cutting. Your videos provide joy, wonder, instruction, inspiration, philosophy, and wonderful engagement with your viewers. Keep on doing you! ❤❤❤❤
It was better in raw form. The production, camera cuts, dramatic music I can do without. I've been watching for years so I don't disagree with you otherwise.
You took the words out of my mouth. I love hearing you paid 24k and ended up with a stone(s) rated at 67k. Don't stop sharing with us. Sometimes, unfortunately, price is the only measure we have (understand).
Don't worry, we know you run a business and in fact telling us how much those gems are (1) satisfying to see how much that work paid off or surprises you and (2) You sell those gems on your site for us to buy, it's nice to see that transparency.
Justin, I’ve been enjoying your channel for along while ! The only change I’ve noticed is the addition of family and staff that has added value and variety!!! There is always something new. You are a welcome addition to Any Day whether good or bad. Your channel provides, history, travel, education, humor and opportunity to see the results of opal from rough to beautiful gems. I know it takes a dedicated team to create all that is needed to produce a successful business such as Black Opal Direct. I watch often. To you and your team Thank you for all you do 🙏
@@randolphreazor7463opal is my sister's birthstone and I'm so jealous! 😂 I wear it anyway. Mine is topaz, which is also very pretty, especially the blues!! Unfortunately birthstone rings always seem to go for that golden brown, which isn't my favorite color 😅
They're just jealous, Justin. In my opinion, you don't come off as a greedy, money grubbing person at all. Just a responsible, competitive cutter and business owner.
Listen, ive been a huge fan for a while, when B.O.D came to the tuscon gem show he not only met with me but got me a pass into the dealer show. .hadn't even met me yet. Justin is an amazing person and is super kind. I hope him all the success in the world and hope he can make as good a living as possible, because he is great at what he does and he the kind of person you just won't regret supporting. He's the reason I got into collecting and gave me the confidence to try to cut opal myself ..
Opals are my favorite and they are my birthstone. This was absolutely wonderful for me to see… it’s my first time here. I’ve been watching videos of rock hounds around the Great Lakes find and polish some beautiful stones and gems, but these opals are the epitome of my viewing experience! Thank you for sharing your wonderful skills. I will watch this again because opals demand they be gazed at over and over and over. Thank you!
Im a ritired auto mechanic, profits never drove me. Service drove me. Being kind and honest. I was free from the cash grab. Guess what? I was very successful. Justin, you impress me as the same.
I am stunned anyone thinks you are only about the money?!! That isn't what I see at all. You are very dedicated to your family, and the love of opal. You have chosen to make your living with opal. You need to make money so you and your family have a place to live, and food to eat. You are a master in your chosen profession and deserve to be well compensated. I think you have a very fair and reasonable idea of what you have, and what it's worth. Keep bringing me videos of your amazing work! 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰 Nothing but love and respect from Colorado.
Envy....one of the Seven Deadly Sins. Personally for the joy and amusement I gave got from some of my favourite UA-camrs have in the past I've tossed a little money at them to support them during livestreams etc. Like buying a mate a beer.
The really funny thing about this is that the opal industry is a money driven industry but a lot of people that work in the industry aren’t really driven by money. They love the stones and the excitement of finding beautiful stones. Like Justin.
@@IForgetWorldsyeah it seems like a real boom and bust industry. Weak economy like the past few years and you may be sitting on inventory for a while. Not something where razor thin margins will allow you to survive long term so important to capitalize when the getting is good
I loved your observation as a young man and the inner vow that you took unto yourself and what a wise way to answer the accusers 😉.....'you' are the true gem🙏
After watching your videos for years I would say that you are definitely not money driven. Family driven, yes. Opal driven, yes. Thanks for all your work and uploads, and opening your life, family and business up to us outsiders. Appreciate it!
You have mad skills, literally honed over the years. Your focus is on your passion, family and friends. Money is a mere side effect of that skill, and it provides for the people that rely on you. Stay awesome.
Stunning justin.there is nothing in the world that comes remotely close to a lightening ridge black opal lovingly hand cut by a master craftsman .bravo amigo
Anyone who has watched your videos knows what you are about. You are about family, traditions and respecting the craft. Absolutely gorgeous stones. Thank you for sharing. ❤😮
What a nonsense to say you are only money driven! It is so delightful to watch your excitement as the stones unfold their beauty It is your natural talent a d man years of experience that shines through. It sounds like a very risky business buying rough stones at high prices. Naturally financial reward is an important factor. Thanks for the many hours of enjoyable education.
People who say you are "money driven" are just not looking at the whole picture! Of course you have to be, this is how you make your living! You have a family to feed, house, and clothe. You have employees to pay, not to mention all of the other costs of running a business. People are also not realizing that you are not getting astounding gems from every single stone you cut! I know that you are putting many, many hours into cutting that we don't see! It is wonderful that you can make your living by doing something that you so obviously have a passion for! Keep up the great work Justin!❤❤❤
Justin I used to be a full-time musician and can't tell you how many times some how found out would ask me to sing right there. Ha. I'd tell them, look I ain't a pet animal. I've trained to do what I'm doing and I've been a professional for quite some time. If you want to to see me sing come to the show. I'd walk away, usually to some sort of cat calling and such. It didn't bother me one bet. Truth being told it costed my group about 30% of all gross monies to pay mgt, bookers and publicity agents. Not to mention payroll taxes and a bunch of other fees to others. Oh let's not forget the cost of travel, lodging and food. We were lucky to bring home 35-40% of the gross and we split it all 4 ways. People don't know what people don't know. They don't need to know how the sausage is made. You go to the mines directly and the product is coming to the end of supply. Your gems come at a complete bargain and that's the truth. Blessings to all of you.
I think if folk actually took the time to watch your videos rather than blindly comment they would realise what a strong passion you have for cutting opals. There is always the aspect that this is your families business and you don't have to share your knowledge with anyone if you wanted. Personally I love watching your videos even though I doubt I will ever cut or own one myself. Take care and have fun!
People watch your videos because of your enthusiasm and your ability to read and cut the opals wonderfully. Not to see how much money a stone is worth. I can’t afford your stones but I comment a lot. The time I spend with you is the time well spent.
I particularly enjoyed the intense pathos you create with the addition of dramatic music while your cutting. Someone has been studying filmic techniques!
I have appreciated it when you weigh a finished stone and tell us the value. I’ve learned so much about opal from your UA-cam channel, which has been FREE for me to watch and learn. It helps me to appreciate just how much GOOD opals should cost. Those who have commented about the money portion of your videos are missing an important part of what you offer to your viewers. Keep up the amazing work !! ❤
I work with people who are very much money centric. I've gotten pretty good after 35 years at telling the ones who are from the ones who are not. In my dealings with you purchasing opal, it's become very clear you are not all about the money. You are good man, a good business man and obviously a good provider. I can say without question that my life is better for having had you introduce me to cutting opal and the beautiful stone it becomes. Thank you for that and the knowledge and skill you share so freely.
One of the reasons I fell in love with this channel is those little bits of true wisdom u throw out there ! Those stones turned out absolutely beautiful! I was so worried about that s word 😂great video as always Justin! ❤from North Carolina
I genuinely appreciate that you try to make your art into a sellable product with a profit. You are supporting your family, your employees and your communities. And you provide wonder to so many of us here. I hope you make more money year after year.
People don't understand when you own your own business you try and maximize profit because you have employees and bills to pay I've watched you for awhile and can tell you're a good man don't worry about haters.
Beautiful job on a beautiful gem! That blue/purple color combination is to die for. No one could do as magnificent job as you do if they were primarily motivated by money.
You never cease to amaze, Justin. And it shows that through your many years of cutting Opal. Stunning Opals, as usual!! Your friend, the Retired Paramedic and Horse Trainer in Ontario, Canada, Jenn 💖 🇨🇦
Justin, you are one of the most down to earth, genuine people on the planet! The valuations you give are informative of how different characteristics of the opals you cut affect their prices. I love watching your videos and appreciate your mastery of your craft. If the circumstances of my life change to where buying an opal would be possible, I know a little something about the work that goes into mining, sourcing and cutting them -- thanks to you.
I see a superb craftsman finding the best gems inside sometimes not so great looking specimens. Never has the idea of money come into it. Just pure art. As an artist myself; I recognise you. Thanks for supplying us with the beauty you uncover
Amazing as always. At the beginning of the cutting I was thinking why don’t Justin just slice the top off to see if there’s a couple small stones he could cut to gems. Then like a minute later you explained why you didn’t and showed the top being cut and there was nothing there like you said. lol. That’s why I watch the master and don’t cut gem stones myself. As far as money goes, haters gonna hate. I’ve looked at every page of the gems you have for sale on your site like 100 times and there are stones for every price range. Keep it up Justin.
I suspect that much of the envy and complaints is that they have never run a business especially a high risk one like yours. They hear the cost and then the retail but never realize all the hidden costs of running a business. They think that spread between what you paid and what you will sell for is all net profit when it is far from the truth. Not only the overhead but also averaging in the failures, not that you show many. And even a "failure" can turn a profit, just not what you bid and bought it for. True business men and women understand that a lot comes out of that spread besides your net. Just glad you do well enough to share your adventures here. Thank you for taking us along for the ride, Justin.
Beautiful stones! Great job with the cut and polish. Also, there is no shame in making money. When running a business, you make business decisions. We know you love the work, and it shows in the stones. Thanks for sharing!
I love your videos ❤ My son was in a student ambassador program. He visited Australia for two weeks. They went to a lot of places there. He brought me an opal pendant. My daughter was in the same program. She visited France and Italy. She brought me a gorgeous Murano vase. Cobalt blue with tiny gold flowers.
Amazing gems!! Absolutely stunning. Don’t pay any mind to those complaining about being money oriented. This isn’t a hobby. This is how you make a living. Im sure those same people don’t volunteer to do their jobs for free. Nor would they turn down a fat raise or bonus. Absolutely ridiculous.
Seriously, focused on money, no way, you are focused on the art of the Opal, but dude you need to eat. I am glad you got a new studio, and that your production quality is sooo much better. Also your relationship with your wife and son show your focus isn't on money. Please do not change a thing, keep giving us the estimated values, your fans live vicariously through this part 😂
Those folks that feel like you are driven by money probably do not understand the dynamic that exists between miners and buyers/cutters. Miners are desperate to make the most of every parcel because opal is not easy to find and costs are high. Buyers/cutters can never know with surety if they will make a profit on a parcel so they have to be very good assessors and also willing to take a gamble to get opal from the miners to cut, often paying about what they think they can get from a parcel and hope they get more wins than losses for a profit. Buyers like you rely on a reputation of being fair for miners to be even willing to ask them to come and look at the parcels they have unearthed. The simple fact that you can access enough opal on a consistent basis to cut as much as you do suggests that you have a very good reputation as a buyer. If the miners are willing to sell you opal in enough quantity to keep you cutting year round then it shows clearly that you offer fair prices and make the commensurate profit.
I agree with all the comments about the negativity. Those folks haven't watched many of your videos. We never miss an episode, you're one of our favorites. As far as the new editing, some is great. Where you lose me is in the jumps for 2 seconds back and forth. That distracts me from the gem cutting and I start to pay more attention to the editing than the gem's story. And it's a little dizzying. We love your work and your presence. You are so genuine. Thank you for such lovely content.
Profit isn't a dirty word. You have a family to provide for and a skill you've honed over many years. It's obvious you love revealing what's hidden inside a rough opal and bringing out the best in it. Being able to make a living doing that is just icing on the cake. If you can earn a living doing what you love, you'll never work a day in your life.
Jus’ and crew at BOD. I love watching these vids. Calming, educational, exciting and opal is my birth stone. This Quadrella at Black Opal Direct Videos pays my soul, mind, emotions and anandamide in Spades, Clubs, Diamonds and Hearts. 🙏🙏🙏🙏
I think personally Justin, if you were all about the money you wouldn’t hold onto your stunning collection of opals you keep. I love your love of the gems. I love your steady hands at your craft. Truly one of the best I’ve ever seen. Blessings to you and your family
A famous sage once said ..... "Your work is to find your work and then give it to yourself with all your might!" (Dalai Lhama) and this. you most assuredly do Jason! You are a creative wizard and we all salute you and your passion for excellence in opal gem creations. :-) Best wishes for continued success with your business! MQH (Georgian Bay, Canada)
Justin, I love watching you cut opal. Lately I’ve noticed that you were putting more shots of your cutting from the left and the right side and not from straight above. I really miss the full-time view from straight above because then I can see exactly what you’re doing with your hands and the Opal. Keep up the great work.
I watch you create these beautiful pieces of art out of ugly rocks. You seem to care about bringing out the best in every piece. I have never gotten the impression you do it for money but for the pleasure it gives you to create something so lovely. Don’t worry about those that don’t understand your work is highly valued.
You are a very sweet, kind, and gentle man. You do not come across as money driven at all!!! It's a shame some people have nothing better to do than throw insults at people. I love watching you because you're wholesome and good. I love you're story telling!!! Love ya man!!! Don't listen to the hype!!!
Wow Justin, It’s amazing that you can turn that large opal into beautiful opals! The Blue is out of this world, I can see the fun working nothing into a peace of Art!! 🎉🎉🎉🎉
I have 14 years worth of your video's Justin. I've even got a couple with Saxon the scientist. My only problem with your video's is...I hold my breath the entire time! I'm fine with faceting, but when I have a piece of your rough in my hand, I take a breath about every 60 seconds ! The magic is watching you bring out the beauty. Well done my friend, perfect quiet, calm and visually pleasing. ;) Thanks
People can be so mean and nosy. Make it make sense. I love what you do, and I never thought about money when you do it. Thanks for helping me have a great place to come to from the world.
I find it weird that someone would say you're only money-driven. Of course, this is your living, you need to get a return on the investment of your money, time, and expertise. But it's clear from your videos that you're very much driven by family, passing on your knowledge (to viewers as well as your next generation), and bringing out the very best in every stone you cut. You're thinking about the beauty of the opal, how best to display it, and the enjoyment of the person who ends up owning the gem. You don't have to watch many of your videos to pick up all that about you.
You getting three gems out of the stone amazing! 🎉 The color was Wow!@ Another master class in opal cutting!@ Thats what I'm talking about as we say here in the south. 😊
I think you are Artistry, Beauty & Family driven. I've watched you for years & yes you give us values on gems but mainly cuz we ask about it. Stay yourself Justin, we all love you just the way you are
wow this stone really got me. perfect colours for me, blue and purple are my favorite, if i had money to buy and australian opal right now, one of those would be my choise. amazing work
There's no need to respond to criticism about pursuing profit. You share your business with us and most who watch respect that this is how you earn a living and that you do so successfully. Such criticism says more about how some have fallen for the politics of envy, instilled by a system designed to exploit them. Celebrate your successes whilst remaining humble.
Yessssssss I was hoping you'd do a cushion cut!! It's gorgeous! Ngl I was hoping the moon would stay a moon, but that might be a harder shape to sell, so I totally get going for the drop and triangle. (And the triangle is actually in my price range lol, although it's probably been snapped up by now 😂) That purple is amazing! Also, the music in this video was excellent and did a great job building tension as you were grinding the stone. Nice work from everyone on the team! 👍✨
On the money thing - yes, you want to know and are excited when you create a $$$$ opal, but it's not because you're hyper-focused on the money for the sake of money. The worth of a stone is one way you measure yourself - you selected the knobby or the parcel, you planned your attack, and you cut it, making considered decisions in real time, so it's natural you're excited when you produce a beauty and you make a profit. Plus, your's is one of only a few professions where the value you produce can be accurately measured, against a going rate, and who invest $$$ and labor that is at risk in the outcome. And bear all the risk in the raw materials. People should imagine their compensation being that erratic and risky, and see if they too wouldn't beam when the plan comes together.
I love your work and am fascinated by the way you read a stone. As if the stone speaks to you and says no! not there! cut me here. After hearing, listening to the stone, you then coax, almost caress the gem out of it. It’s mesmerizing to watch and always so exciting at the end when you show the finished gem. TYFS your talent with us. Huge appreciation from Vermont!
Oh dude, seeing the value is a huge part of why I like these videos so much. It feels almost like we also get to be part of the reward of the work (and I know how often you come up with very little or break even, so it IS a reward).
I've never thought you were money focused. The stones are what's important to you and cutting them to reveal their beauty. There's nothing wrong with being happy you make some money, that's your job. But the art of cutting something rare and special is what you're all about, I see that. I love watching you work, it's so wonderful.
Nice ❤ not only do I love watching your videos of unveiling a beautiful stone out of the rough but you always have a good story to tell while doing it you do such a beautiful job with with the art
I loved this one. You're a true master gem cutter Justin. It's enchanting to watch you turn a rough stone into these stunning gems. It's simply amazing. Thank you again sir!
Thank you for sharing the creation of these stunningly beautiful black opal gem stones, Justin. 🤩Opel is my birthstone, so these beauties really set my eyes to sparkling! ☺ Your love of your craft shines brightly in your master-works...the results of your creative skill. 🥰
Money hasn't changed you mate. You still can't dance😎
Best comment 🏆
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA great job.
Lol, stop it...I love Justin dancing...
@@blackopaldirect Justin just trying to get out of dancing....
@@Phoenix_Enterprises me too💜
Ridiculous ignorance from those who made comments re money. They clearly havent watched many of your videos!!! You're the whole package Justin, a master artisan, family man, with multigenerational family tradition in opal cutting. Your videos provide joy, wonder, instruction, inspiration, philosophy, and wonderful engagement with your viewers. Keep on doing you! ❤❤❤❤
It was better in raw form. The production, camera cuts, dramatic music I can do without. I've been watching for years so I don't disagree with you otherwise.
8:42
@@wavytiger1 It most definitely was better cut... you're made haha
This is such a wonderful video. Thank you!
Personally I love to hear the value/cost of the gems you cut.
Me too... That way I know I will never be able to afford it 🤣🤪
I also like to hear the value of the opal. Let’s me know how much to budget for!!!
You took the words out of my mouth.
I love hearing you paid 24k and ended up with a stone(s) rated at 67k. Don't stop sharing with us. Sometimes, unfortunately, price is the only measure we have (understand).
Don't worry, we know you run a business and in fact telling us how much those gems are (1) satisfying to see how much that work paid off or surprises you and (2) You sell those gems on your site for us to buy, it's nice to see that transparency.
Justin, I’ve been enjoying your channel for along while !
The only change I’ve noticed is the addition of family and staff that has added value and variety!!! There is always something new. You are a welcome addition to
Any Day whether good or bad. Your channel provides, history, travel, education, humor and opportunity to see the results of opal from rough to beautiful gems. I know it takes a dedicated team to create all that is needed to produce a successful business such as Black Opal Direct. I watch often.
To you and your team Thank you for all you do 🙏
Means a lot thanks!
You forgot the sentimental values one can learn to appreciate! Thank you, Grandmaster! 🔥
Justin is a Master craftsman at he does! Opal is my birthstone and no to opals are alike!
@@randolphreazor7463opal is my sister's birthstone and I'm so jealous! 😂 I wear it anyway. Mine is topaz, which is also very pretty, especially the blues!! Unfortunately birthstone rings always seem to go for that golden brown, which isn't my favorite color 😅
@@blackopaldirect I love your videos and appreciate the knowledge of cost and worth. Please don’t change.
Business is Business. You have people to provide for.
They're just jealous, Justin. In my opinion, you don't come off as a greedy, money grubbing person at all. Just a responsible, competitive cutter and business owner.
Listen, ive been a huge fan for a while, when B.O.D came to the tuscon gem show he not only met with me but got me a pass into the dealer show. .hadn't even met me yet. Justin is an amazing person and is super kind. I hope him all the success in the world and hope he can make as good a living as possible, because he is great at what he does and he the kind of person you just won't regret supporting. He's the reason I got into collecting and gave me the confidence to try to cut opal myself ..
Thanks mate, I really appreciate it! thanks for the kind words
Opals are my favorite and they are my birthstone. This was absolutely wonderful for me to see… it’s my first time here. I’ve been watching videos of rock hounds around the Great Lakes find and polish some beautiful stones and gems, but these opals are the epitome of my viewing experience! Thank you for sharing your wonderful skills. I will watch this again because opals demand they be gazed at over and over and over. Thank you!
Justin your show is a catharsis for my soul .
Im a ritired auto mechanic, profits never drove me. Service drove me. Being kind and honest. I was free from the cash grab. Guess what? I was very successful. Justin, you impress me as the same.
That s is really nice to hear
Absolutely beautiful gem, that colour is out of this world!
Great story and lesson shared in the middle, Thanks Justin!
Thank you! IM glad you enjoyed
I am stunned anyone thinks you are only about the money?!! That isn't what I see at all. You are very dedicated to your family, and the love of opal. You have chosen to make your living with opal. You need to make money so you and your family have a place to live, and food to eat. You are a master in your chosen profession and deserve to be well compensated. I think you have a very fair and reasonable idea of what you have, and what it's worth. Keep bringing me videos of your amazing work! 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰 Nothing but love and respect from Colorado.
I will never understand why some people have a problem with people making money at their job, but this seems to come up a lot, especially on YT.
Envy....one of the Seven Deadly Sins. Personally for the joy and amusement I gave got from some of my favourite UA-camrs have in the past I've tossed a little money at them to support them during livestreams etc. Like buying a mate a beer.
The really funny thing about this is that the opal industry is a money driven industry but a lot of people that work in the industry aren’t really driven by money. They love the stones and the excitement of finding beautiful stones. Like Justin.
@@IForgetWorldsyeah it seems like a real boom and bust industry. Weak economy like the past few years and you may be sitting on inventory for a while. Not something where razor thin margins will allow you to survive long term so important to capitalize when the getting is good
Social media is 90% jealously, hate, and greed.
I doubt any of them have worked hard at anything
I loved your observation as a young man and the inner vow that you took unto yourself and what a wise way to answer the accusers 😉.....'you' are the true gem🙏
After watching your videos for years I would say that you are definitely not money driven. Family driven, yes. Opal driven, yes. Thanks for all your work and uploads, and opening your life, family and business up to us outsiders. Appreciate it!
You have mad skills, literally honed over the years. Your focus is on your passion, family and friends. Money is a mere side effect of that skill, and it provides for the people that rely on you. Stay awesome.
Right on!
Stunning justin.there is nothing in the world that comes remotely close to a lightening ridge black opal lovingly hand cut by a master craftsman .bravo amigo
Anyone who has watched your videos knows what you are about. You are about family, traditions and respecting the craft. Absolutely gorgeous stones. Thank you for sharing. ❤😮
There's nothing like ending my day with watching a master at work. Lovely, as always. Those gems are so beautiful .
Thank you! Cheers!
What a nonsense to say you are only money driven! It is so delightful to watch your excitement as the stones unfold their beauty
It is your natural talent a d man years of experience that shines through.
It sounds like a very risky business buying rough stones at high prices. Naturally financial reward is an important factor.
Thanks for the many hours of enjoyable education.
People who say you are "money driven" are just not looking at the whole picture! Of course you have to be, this is how you make your living! You have a family to feed, house, and clothe. You have employees to pay, not to mention all of the other costs of running a business. People are also not realizing that you are not getting astounding gems from every single stone you cut! I know that you are putting many, many hours into cutting that we don't see! It is wonderful that you can make your living by doing something that you so obviously have a passion for! Keep up the great work Justin!❤❤❤
I look forward to every opal session that you give us. Thank you for sharing your joy and experiences.
You are so welcome and thank you
The days of artists having to die broke are long over. You are an artist and should be paid well for bringing such beauty into the world. Thank you!
Justin I used to be a full-time musician and can't tell you how many times some how found out would ask me to sing right there. Ha. I'd tell them, look I ain't a pet animal. I've trained to do what I'm doing and I've been a professional for quite some time. If you want to to see me sing come to the show. I'd walk away, usually to some sort of cat calling and such. It didn't bother me one bet. Truth being told it costed my group about 30% of all gross monies to pay mgt, bookers and publicity agents. Not to mention payroll taxes and a bunch of other fees to others. Oh let's not forget the cost of travel, lodging and food. We were lucky to bring home 35-40% of the gross and we split it all 4 ways. People don't know what people don't know. They don't need to know how the sausage is made. You go to the mines directly and the product is coming to the end of supply. Your gems come at a complete bargain and that's the truth. Blessings to all of you.
I think if folk actually took the time to watch your videos rather than blindly comment they would realise what a strong passion you have for cutting opals. There is always the aspect that this is your families business and you don't have to share your knowledge with anyone if you wanted. Personally I love watching your videos even though I doubt I will ever cut or own one myself. Take care and have fun!
People watch your videos because of your enthusiasm and your ability to read and cut the opals wonderfully. Not to see how much money a stone is worth. I can’t afford your stones but I comment a lot. The time I spend with you is the time well spent.
I particularly enjoyed the intense pathos you create with the addition of dramatic music while your cutting. Someone has been studying filmic techniques!
What beautiful gems! Loved our Monday date! Can’t wait till next week! ❤BOD 😊
I have appreciated it when you weigh a finished stone and tell us the value. I’ve learned so much about opal from your UA-cam channel, which has been FREE for me to watch and learn. It helps me to appreciate just how much GOOD opals should cost. Those who have commented about the money portion of your videos are missing an important part of what you offer to your viewers. Keep up the amazing work !! ❤
I work with people who are very much money centric. I've gotten pretty good after 35 years at telling the ones who are from the ones who are not. In my dealings with you purchasing opal, it's become very clear you are not all about the money. You are good man, a good business man and obviously a good provider. I can say without question that my life is better for having had you introduce me to cutting opal and the beautiful stone it becomes. Thank you for that and the knowledge and skill you share so freely.
thanks mate! Appreciate it!
I think it’s wonderful to see a true artist receive reward for his talents.
One of the reasons I fell in love with this channel is those little bits of true wisdom u throw out there ! Those stones turned out absolutely beautiful! I was so worried about that s word 😂great video as always Justin! ❤from North Carolina
These gems speak to me differently than all the rest you have cut. I absolutely adore the drop.
I genuinely appreciate that you try to make your art into a sellable product with a profit. You are supporting your family, your employees and your communities. And you provide wonder to so many of us here. I hope you make more money year after year.
People don't understand when you own your own business you try and maximize profit because you have employees and bills to pay I've watched you for awhile and can tell you're a good man don't worry about haters.
Its nice you pointed that out because its def a factor and a big one lol 🙏
Beautiful job on a beautiful gem! That blue/purple color combination is to die for. No one could do as magnificent job as you do if they were primarily motivated by money.
You never cease to amaze, Justin. And it shows that through your many years of cutting Opal. Stunning Opals, as usual!! Your friend, the Retired Paramedic and Horse Trainer in Ontario, Canada, Jenn 💖 🇨🇦
Wow, thank you!
@@blackopaldirect Only stating a truth here, Justin. That's all you'll ever get from me, Mate!! LOL 🤣 J Jenn
Justin, you are one of the most down to earth, genuine people on the planet! The valuations you give are informative of how different characteristics of the opals you cut affect their prices. I love watching your videos and appreciate your mastery of your craft. If the circumstances of my life change to where buying an opal would be possible, I know a little something about the work that goes into mining, sourcing and cutting them -- thanks to you.
I see a superb craftsman finding the best gems inside sometimes not so great looking specimens. Never has the idea of money come into it. Just pure art. As an artist myself; I recognise you. Thanks for supplying us with the beauty you uncover
Amazing as always. At the beginning of the cutting I was thinking why don’t Justin just slice the top off to see if there’s a couple small stones he could cut to gems. Then like a minute later you explained why you didn’t and showed the top being cut and there was nothing there like you said. lol. That’s why I watch the master and don’t cut gem stones myself. As far as money goes, haters gonna hate. I’ve looked at every page of the gems you have for sale on your site like 100 times and there are stones for every price range. Keep it up Justin.
I suspect that much of the envy and complaints is that they have never run a business especially a high risk one like yours. They hear the cost and then the retail but never realize all the hidden costs of running a business. They think that spread between what you paid and what you will sell for is all net profit when it is far from the truth. Not only the overhead but also averaging in the failures, not that you show many. And even a "failure" can turn a profit, just not what you bid and bought it for. True business men and women understand that a lot comes out of that spread besides your net. Just glad you do well enough to share your adventures here. Thank you for taking us along for the ride, Justin.
The "Starry Night" gem.
Beautiful stones! Great job with the cut and polish. Also, there is no shame in making money. When running a business, you make business decisions. We know you love the work, and it shows in the stones. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you!
I love your videos ❤ My son was in a student ambassador program. He visited Australia for two weeks. They went to a lot of places there. He brought me an opal pendant. My daughter was in the same program. She visited France and Italy. She brought me a gorgeous Murano vase. Cobalt blue with tiny gold flowers.
Amazing gems!! Absolutely stunning.
Don’t pay any mind to those complaining about being money oriented. This isn’t a hobby. This is how you make a living. Im sure those same people don’t volunteer to do their jobs for free. Nor would they turn down a fat raise or bonus. Absolutely ridiculous.
Seriously, focused on money, no way, you are focused on the art of the Opal, but dude you need to eat. I am glad you got a new studio, and that your production quality is sooo much better. Also your relationship with your wife and son show your focus isn't on money. Please do not change a thing, keep giving us the estimated values, your fans live vicariously through this part 😂
Thank you!
Those folks that feel like you are driven by money probably do not understand the dynamic that exists between miners and buyers/cutters. Miners are desperate to make the most of every parcel because opal is not easy to find and costs are high. Buyers/cutters can never know with surety if they will make a profit on a parcel so they have to be very good assessors and also willing to take a gamble to get opal from the miners to cut, often paying about what they think they can get from a parcel and hope they get more wins than losses for a profit. Buyers like you rely on a reputation of being fair for miners to be even willing to ask them to come and look at the parcels they have unearthed. The simple fact that you can access enough opal on a consistent basis to cut as much as you do suggests that you have a very good reputation as a buyer. If the miners are willing to sell you opal in enough quantity to keep you cutting year round then it shows clearly that you offer fair prices and make the commensurate profit.
The consistency of the color and pattern throughout that little rock is amazing.
I agree with all the comments about the negativity. Those folks haven't watched many of your videos. We never miss an episode, you're one of our favorites. As far as the new editing, some is great. Where you lose me is in the jumps for 2 seconds back and forth. That distracts me from the gem cutting and I start to pay more attention to the editing than the gem's story. And it's a little dizzying. We love your work and your presence. You are so genuine. Thank you for such lovely content.
Profit isn't a dirty word. You have a family to provide for and a skill you've honed over many years. It's obvious you love revealing what's hidden inside a rough opal and bringing out the best in it. Being able to make a living doing that is just icing on the cake. If you can earn a living doing what you love, you'll never work a day in your life.
Beautiful. Sensational outcome. Helpful commentary and explanations.
Peaceful to watch.
10/10 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
Glad you enjoyed it!
You seem the same great person to me over the years. Don’t let the haters get you down. What a mesmerizing set of stones. Keep up the great work.
Don't worry about those haters. You're amazing, and so are your Gems
Stunning, Justin. 😊
Thank you! Nancy
Jus’ and crew at BOD. I love watching these vids.
Calming, educational, exciting and opal is my birth stone.
This Quadrella at Black Opal Direct Videos pays my soul, mind, emotions and anandamide in Spades, Clubs, Diamonds and Hearts. 🙏🙏🙏🙏
Oh! The lavender pops that show up under the blue are stunning!
I think personally Justin, if you were all about the money you wouldn’t hold onto your stunning collection of opals you keep. I love your love of the gems. I love your steady hands at your craft. Truly one of the best I’ve ever seen. Blessings to you and your family
A famous sage once said ..... "Your work is to find your work and then give it to yourself with all your might!" (Dalai Lhama) and this. you most assuredly do Jason! You are a creative wizard and we all salute you and your passion for excellence in opal gem creations. :-) Best wishes for continued success with your business! MQH (Georgian Bay, Canada)
Once again, experience shows as you reveal 3 beautiful stones. Thank you for sharing.
My pleasure 😊
Justin, I love watching you cut opal. Lately I’ve noticed that you were putting more shots of your cutting from the left and the right side and not from straight above. I really miss the full-time view from straight above because then I can see exactly what you’re doing with your hands and the Opal. Keep up the great work.
A diamond setting would really make that blue pop.
I watch you create these beautiful pieces of art out of ugly rocks. You seem to care about bringing out the best in every piece. I have never gotten the impression you do it for money but for the pleasure it gives you to create something so lovely.
Don’t worry about those that don’t understand your work is highly valued.
The color is beautiful Justin. I’m so glad you got 3 wonderful stones out of it. ❤
Me too!!
You are a very sweet, kind, and gentle man. You do not come across as money driven at all!!! It's a shame some people have nothing better to do than throw insults at people. I love watching you because you're wholesome and good. I love you're story telling!!! Love ya man!!! Don't listen to the hype!!!
Thank you Karla❤️
Wow Justin, It’s amazing that you can turn that large opal into beautiful opals! The Blue is out of this world, I can see the fun working nothing into a peace of Art!! 🎉🎉🎉🎉
Nothing I've seen on this channel would make me think you are money driven ,I can see you love what you do, keep it up❤❤❤❤❤
I have 14 years worth of your video's Justin. I've even got a couple with Saxon the scientist. My only problem with your video's is...I hold my breath the entire time! I'm fine with faceting, but when I have a piece of your rough in my hand, I take a breath about every 60 seconds ! The magic is watching you bring out the beauty. Well done my friend, perfect quiet, calm and visually pleasing. ;) Thanks
That is the kindest words. Than you so much
People can be so mean and nosy. Make it make sense. I love what you do, and I never thought about money when you do it. Thanks for helping me have a great place to come to from the world.
I find it weird that someone would say you're only money-driven. Of course, this is your living, you need to get a return on the investment of your money, time, and expertise. But it's clear from your videos that you're very much driven by family, passing on your knowledge (to viewers as well as your next generation), and bringing out the very best in every stone you cut. You're thinking about the beauty of the opal, how best to display it, and the enjoyment of the person who ends up owning the gem. You don't have to watch many of your videos to pick up all that about you.
You getting three gems out of the stone amazing! 🎉 The color was Wow!@ Another master class in opal cutting!@ Thats what I'm talking about as we say here in the south. 😊
Love the shapes and the beautiful colour.
This is how you make a living. I’m surprised you are not more about the money personally
Watching you work always beings me peace and joy. I bite my nails, cheer out loud, groan. You are fabulous.
Oh my God, Justin. That is the most beautiful deep blue/purple stone. I'm gobsmacked.
I’ve been watching you for quite awhile. I love opal, but I think this is my favorite!
I think you are Artistry, Beauty & Family driven. I've watched you for years & yes you give us values on gems but mainly cuz we ask about it. Stay yourself Justin, we all love you just the way you are
Superb Justin....sheer magic....love watching you on the wheel....
wow this stone really got me. perfect colours for me, blue and purple are my favorite, if i had money to buy and australian opal right now, one of those would be my choise. amazing work
Good choice!
Very special, master at work. Beautiful colours and patterns.
Thank you
👍👍👍😎😎😎
Many thanks
Very well spoken Justin, very well spoken.
By the way, these three stones are absolutely stunning. Mum, dad, kiddo stones.😊
Thank you kindly
Justin, your show is perfect just the way it is brother, don't chang a thing, don't listen to those haters. Keep up the great work.
All I can say…you are a humble person that knows your job with honesty and integrity. GOD bless you👍🏼
There's no need to respond to criticism about pursuing profit. You share your business with us and most who watch respect that this is how you earn a living and that you do so successfully.
Such criticism says more about how some have fallen for the politics of envy, instilled by a system designed to exploit them.
Celebrate your successes whilst remaining humble.
Thank you Gary
Yessssssss I was hoping you'd do a cushion cut!! It's gorgeous! Ngl I was hoping the moon would stay a moon, but that might be a harder shape to sell, so I totally get going for the drop and triangle. (And the triangle is actually in my price range lol, although it's probably been snapped up by now 😂) That purple is amazing!
Also, the music in this video was excellent and did a great job building tension as you were grinding the stone. Nice work from everyone on the team! 👍✨
On the money thing - yes, you want to know and are excited when you create a $$$$ opal, but it's not because you're hyper-focused on the money for the sake of money. The worth of a stone is one way you measure yourself - you selected the knobby or the parcel, you planned your attack, and you cut it, making considered decisions in real time, so it's natural you're excited when you produce a beauty and you make a profit.
Plus, your's is one of only a few professions where the value you produce can be accurately measured, against a going rate, and who invest $$$ and labor that is at risk in the outcome. And bear all the risk in the raw materials. People should imagine their compensation being that erratic and risky, and see if they too wouldn't beam when the plan comes together.
well said!
I love your work and am fascinated by the way you read a stone. As if the stone speaks to you and says no! not there! cut me here. After hearing, listening to the stone, you then coax, almost caress the gem out of it. It’s mesmerizing to watch and always so exciting at the end when you show the finished gem. TYFS your talent with us.
Huge appreciation from Vermont!
I love the journey with the stone to a gem ❤️🫡🫡🏴☠️🏴☠️
Just bought the smallest piece of that beautiful stone.😎🇺🇸
heck yea Scott 😎
Oh dude, seeing the value is a huge part of why I like these videos so much. It feels almost like we also get to be part of the reward of the work (and I know how often you come up with very little or break even, so it IS a reward).
I've never thought you were money focused. The stones are what's important to you and cutting them to reveal their beauty. There's nothing wrong with being happy you make some money, that's your job. But the art of cutting something rare and special is what you're all about, I see that. I love watching you work, it's so wonderful.
Thank you. I only put values on opal in my videos because people want to learn
Nice ❤ not only do I love watching your videos of unveiling a beautiful stone out of the rough but you always have a good story to tell while doing it you do such a beautiful job with with the art
Glad you enjoyed
I loved this one. You're a true master gem cutter Justin. It's enchanting to watch you turn a rough stone into these stunning gems. It's simply amazing. Thank you again sir!
The music needs to be in the background more. I overrides your comments at time while you are working. Great stone and great gems!
A GREAT VIEW ON MONEY, AND A GOOD REPLY TO THOSE CRITICS.
Thank you!
Thank you Justin for sharing this with me ! I love watching you cut and polish Opals !
Thank you for sharing the creation of these stunningly beautiful black opal gem stones, Justin. 🤩Opel is my birthstone, so these beauties really set my eyes to sparkling! ☺ Your love of your craft shines brightly in your master-works...the results of your creative skill. 🥰
It was very relaxing to watch the journey from rough stone to gems....thank-you Tony
Beautiful opal gems from this cutting session. I love your videos. Such craft and knowledge. Thanks for sharing with us.
Thank you! Cheers!
Don’t let the hater’s get you down. Those are some beautiful stones and I enjoyed watching you cut them.
The blue is simply magnificent. Congratulations