Neptune’s Cluster

Phylum Mollusca
Class Bivalvia
Genus, species undetermined
Coober Pedy, Australia

This is a sensationally presented cluster of shells. It has a story to tell as to its discovery Coober Pedy has some very old opal mines known as Black Point. In April 1997, Robert Upton, a miner of some 15 years, decided to investigate these mines, as they were once very famous for the opal they produced, in particular opalized shells.

After many arduous weeks scouring these mines, Robert was beginning to believe that the area was mined out by the old miners. He resolved to inspect the mines one last time before moving on to other areas. It was at this point that he discovered a small patch of opal in an almost inaccessible region of a mine wall. This small patch of opal proved to be a beautiful opalized bivalve shell. After removing the sell from the wall, he discovered that behind it was a cluster of opalized shells.

The quality and quantity of the cluster of the shells is exceptional and unique; thus he named the opal Neptune’s Cluster, as this name reflects the origins and status of the cluster. The shells have been cleaned and polished and kept as much in one piece as possible. They are kept in a very special display case with a plaque that can be seen in the pictures and one on the front of the box, which is 18.25” x 12.25” x 6.25”. The cluster consists of approximately 96 shells: 20 solids and 76 semisolid and skin shells. The total weight is approximately 7.5 kilograms.

This is truly a special and unique piece. More information can be found at www.berrydopals.com.au. Email Trevor@berrydopals.com.au for more information.