Top gem triplet opals are increasingly rare as the mines are not producing high quality opal as they did in the past. The opal that is used to create these gems, when it was available, was selling for $5,000 to $6,000 per ounce. Today, the triplet cutters are having to go to individuals who have hoarded this top gem material from years ago and now want a fortune for it. If you decide to purchase one of these incredible stones, you have made a wise choice and a good investment.