Koroit

Koroit is a small opal mining town located in southwestern Queensland, Australia. It is situated approximately 80 km west of Cunnamulla and 1,000 km west of Brisbane. Koroit is best known for its distinctive boulder opals, which are found embedded in ironstone concretions.

History:

The area was originally inhabited by Indigenous Australians. European settlement began in the late 19th century with pastoralists. The discovery of opal in the early 20th century led to the establishment of Koroit as a mining town. The town's name is believed to derive from an Indigenous word.

Opal Mining:

Koroit is a significant producer of boulder opal. The opals found in the region are characterized by their vibrant colors and patterns, often surrounded by the host ironstone matrix. Koroit opals are highly sought after by jewelers and collectors worldwide. The mining process in Koroit typically involves open-cut mining or shaft mining.

Community and Infrastructure:

Koroit is a small and remote community. The town has basic services, including a general store and a pub. Accommodation options are limited, but there are often camping facilities available. The town relies heavily on the opal mining industry, and tourism also plays a role in the local economy.

Geology:

The geology of the Koroit area is characterized by Cretaceous sedimentary rocks. These rocks contain ironstone concretions in which the boulder opals are formed. The opalization process is believed to have occurred through the deposition of silica-rich solutions into cavities and fissures within the ironstone.