The Red Admiral, also known as the ‘Butterfly Stone’ was discovered during World War I on the ‘Phone Line’ field in Lightning Ridge, Australia.
This opal is 51 carats, and has a predominantly red pattern which is visible from all angles.
The stone was given the name “Butterfly” in 1920 that because it its resembled a butterfly found in England, the Red Admiral.
According to Len Cram (the well known opal historian): “If you turn this magnificent gem on its side it changes from a butterfly to a full-length picture of a Spanish dancer in traditional broad ruffled dress, perfect in pose and movement, aflame with fiery lights.”
The Red Admiral has had many owners, including Percy Marks (Designers, Jewellers, Opal, Gem & Diamond Merchants since 1899) and a Queensland grazier, before being purchased by a Mrs Drysdale of Sydney.
Since 2004, it has been owned by Percy Marks & Co.