The Gem and Rock show was a success! Not only did I find what I was looking for, but I also got a few gifts, as well! There was a fascinating piece of opalized wood being displayed. I would've loved to have such a specimen, but unfortunately for me, it wasn't for sale.
A very nice piece of rough opal. While I can hardly discount the beauty of a well-polished stone, I personally do prefer rough specimens when it comes to opals in particular. It gives them character, and in my opinion, enhances the natural beauty of the stone. And at a wonderful price, as well!
I also bought a pretty little gem of tourmaline. It's a nice green, and I think it would set nicely in gold. A classic rectangular cut. There were other cuts available, but I was taken with the color of this one.
For gifts, I bought my mother a new set of earrings, also with opals, and a fossilized Rapidash bone. It isn't much, but I hope she'll be happy with them come Mother's Day.
I also bought a rather large Omastar fossil for Brawly. He's fond of Helix fossils, and they do make such pretty decorations! It's been a while since I've had the chance to visit him for non-league related occasions, so I suppose this is my way of apology.
For my dear Wallace, I acquired an incredibly well-preserved Milotic skull. As, clearly, Opal is the winner of the day, it makes sense that it's been preserved in opal. While most of it is common opal (Meaning no play-of-color, what opal is so well-known for), there are parts of it that display that beautiful iridescent sheen. I'm quite pleased with my find.
Overall, it was an incredibly successful trip, and I enjoyed myself immensely.
