OSLU Energy Unearths Rare Ethiopian Opal Rough – A Sparkle of Potential for Jewelers and Collectors

PHOENIX, AZ – November 8, 2023 – OSLU Energy LLC, a dynamic sourcing company based in Phoenix, Arizona, is making waves in the gemstone industry with its latest acquisition: a significant collection of high-quality Ethiopian Opal Rough. While many know OSLU Energy for its ventures in sustainable energy solutions – the “Energy” in their name speaks to their origins – the company has quietly expanded its reach into ethically sourced, unique materials, and this opal collection is a shining example. “We started OSLU Energy believing in responsible resource management, and that principle extends to everything we do,” explains a company spokesperson. “We saw an opportunity to bring exceptional Ethiopian Opal Rough directly to jewelers and collectors, ensuring both quality and ethical sourcing. It’s a natural extension of our commitment to providing value and transparency.” What’s the Buzz About Ethiopian Opal? Ethiopian Opal has rapidly gained popularity in recent years, and for good reason. It’s known for its vibrant play-of-color – that magical fire you see within the stone. Unlike some other opal sources, Ethiopian opal often features “play-of-color” visible across the entire stone, not just in patches. This makes it incredibly versatile for cutting into cabochons, beads, and faceted gems. But it’s not just the beauty. Ethiopian opal is comparatively softer than Australian opal (typically around 5.5-6 on the Mohs scale), making it easier to work with for lapidary artists. This is a major draw for jewelers who want to create unique, custom pieces without spending excessive time and effort on shaping the stone. OSLU Energy's Collection: A Spectrum of Possibilities OSLU Energy isn't just bringing any opal rough to market. They’ve focused on sourcing material that showcases the best Ethiopia has to offer. Their current collection includes: Welo Opal: Perhaps the most well-known Ethiopian opal, Welo opal is prized for its bright, vivid play-of-color, often in orange, yellow, red, and green hues. OSLU Energy’s Welo rough boasts exceptional clarity and a strong, consistent fire. “We’ve hand-selected pieces that really pop,” says a company gemologist. “The color saturation is fantastic.” Mezezo Opal: Known for its slightly more subdued, yet elegant, play-of-color, Mezezo opal often displays pastel shades of pink, blue, and green. It's a favorite among jewelers looking for a more delicate aesthetic. OSLU Energy’s Mezezo rough features interesting patterns and a unique translucence. Shewa Opal: A relatively newer find, Shewa opal is characterized by its unique crystal structure and often exhibits a “skin” effect, where the play-of-color is concentrated on the surface. This creates stunning visual effects when cut and polished. OSLU Energy’s Shewa rough offers exciting potential for innovative designs. The rough pieces range in size from a few carats to substantial blocks exceeding 100 carats, providing options for both small-scale artisans and larger jewelry manufacturers. Importantly, OSLU Energy provides detailed information about the origin and characteristics of each piece, ensuring complete transparency for their customers. Ethical Sourcing: A Cornerstone of OSLU Energy's Approach In a world increasingly focused on responsible sourcing, OSLU Energy is committed to ensuring that their Ethiopian Opal Rough is obtained ethically and sustainably. "We work directly with small-scale mining cooperatives in Ethiopia,” explains the spokesperson. “This allows us to ensure fair labor practices, environmental responsibility, and a direct benefit to the local communities." They prioritize: Fair Pricing: Paying miners a fair price for their rough, ensuring they receive a sustainable income. Safe Working Conditions: Supporting mines that adhere to safe and responsible mining practices. Environmental Protection: Encouraging sustainable mining methods that minimize environmental impact. Community Development: Contributing to local community projects through a portion of their profits. “We believe that beautiful gemstones shouldn't come at the expense of people or the planet,” adds the gemologist. “We’re committed to building long-term relationships with our suppliers and ensuring a sustainable future for the Ethiopian opal industry.” What This Means for Jewelers and Collectors OSLU Energy’s Ethiopian Opal Rough collection offers a compelling opportunity for: Jewelers: Access to high-quality, ethically sourced material that allows them to create unique, custom pieces with exceptional brilliance and value. The ease of working with Ethiopian opal can also streamline the production process. Lapidary Artists: A chance to showcase their skills with a versatile and vibrant gemstone, exploring different cutting styles and design possibilities. Collectors: The opportunity to acquire rare and beautiful opal rough, potentially increasing in value over time, while supporting ethical sourcing practices. Availability and Contact Information OSLU Energy’s Ethiopian Opal Rough is available for purchase directly through their website (currently under development – see contact info below) and through select gem and jewelry trade shows. To learn more about OSLU Energy and their Ethiopian Opal Rough collection, please contact: OSLU Energy LLC 5055 N 32ND ST STE 200 PHOENIX, AZ, 85018-1401, UNITED STATES Phone: 205-567-6032 Email: [email protected] (best method of contact for current availability and pricing) Website: (Coming Soon - check for updates on their social media channels – details available via email)