The Crown Jewel: (11.45ct) Natural Mexican Crystal Opal – From the Vault of the Empress

The Crown Jewel: 11.45ct Natural Mexican Crystal Opal

From the Private Heritage Archive of Mia Verbeeck

A Rare Intersection of Geological Magic and Antwerp History.

Price: €2650.00 (Includes Official ALGT Report & Babiche Bijoux Heritage Certificate)

This breathtaking 11.45-carat Natural Crystal Opal is a rare survivor of a golden era in gemstone trading. Prior to 1980, Mexico stood as the world's sole and primary source for high-quality white and crystal opals, as other major global mines had not yet emerged to define the market. This stone represents that original, prestigious standard of excellence.

Hand-selected for the exclusive "New Old Stock" (deadstock) of Mia Verbeeck, the legendary "Empress of the Antwerp Birds Market," this stone has remained secured in a private vault for nearly four decades. It is now available to the public for the very first time.

Gemstone Excellence

Certified by the ALGT (Antwerp Laboratory for Gemstone Testing), this opal is a prime example of the classic Mexican "Crystal" variety. It possesses a mesmerizing transparency that serves as a canvas for a vibrant "Play of Colors." As the light dances across its surface, you will witness the spectral hues that made Mexican opals world-famous.

• Origin: Mexico (Pre-1980 Heritage Stock)
• Historical Significance: Sourced when Mexico was the world's undisputed origin for this variety.
• Type: Natural Crystal Opal
• Weight: 11.45 Carat
• Dimensions: 23.41 x 15.86 x 6.04 mm
• Clarity: Translucent (Opaline Effect)
• Treatment: None (100% Natural)

The Double Certification Guarantee

To honor its unique provenance and historical significance, this opal is accompanied by:

1. Official ALGT Report: Confirming its technical authenticity and untreated natural origin.
2. Babiche Bijoux Heritage Certificate: Documenting its lineage as an original piece from the historic Mia Verbeeck collection.

A Collector’s Investment

Because this stone originates from a stock pre-dating 1980, it represents a quality and origin that is increasingly difficult to find on the modern market. Given its size of over 11 carats and its documented history, it is a true investment piece—a fragment of a bygone era, preserved by a legend of Antwerp’s heritage.

"A rare opportunity to own a piece of geological history, from a time when Mexico defined the opal world."