A Journey Through Gemstone Heritage

Nestled in the heart of 10,500 acres of untouched Oregon wilderness, Opal Butte Mine is home to some of the finest opals in the world. With a legacy rooted in both natural beauty and mining tradition, the land holds more than just gemstones—it holds a story of rediscovery, resilience, and respect for nature.

Originally mined by West Coast Mining, under the stewardship of the renowned Dale Hewitt, Opal Butte became a gem-hunter’s dream, yielding spectacular fire opals, jaspers, and other unique mineral formations. But for over 20 years, the land lay quiet—untouched, and preserved in its natural state.

That changed in 2005, when Jim Kirkpatrick, an Oregon native with a lifelong passion for gemstones and minerals, purchased the property. What began as a scenic retreat for hunting and timber slowly transformed into a revival of Opal Butte’s storied past.

A smooth, polished stone displayed outdoors on a black pedestal.
A polished amber stone displayed on a stand outdoors with trees and sky in the background.

Rediscovery and Revival

Whispers of opals hidden beneath the surface had echoed through the region for years. Jim and his family decided to investigate—and what they found rekindled a legacy. The opals were still there, waiting to be unearthed again.

Today, the Kirkpatrick family carefully mines Opal Butte with a deep commitment to sustainable practices, ensuring the land remains just as pristine for future generations. Their mission is clear: to share the brilliance of Opal Butte’s treasures while honoring the land that holds them.

Our Mining Heritage and Gemstone Lore

What began with West Coast Mining continues with local, responsible stewardship.

The Kirkpatrick family’s dedication brought Opal Butte back to life, focusing on ethically sourced opals.

Our offerings include world-class opals and beautiful jaspers, each with a story to tell.

Every gemstone reflects our passion for quality, our respect for history, and our love of the land.

Polished fossil display stone outdoors under a blue sky.

Unearth Opal Treasures

Discover the fascinating history and revival of Opal Butte Mine—and the dazzling opals waiting to be found.