Question

Difficulty: MediumNational Gemstone

Australia is known for producing the vast majority of the world's supply of a vibrant, multi-coloured precious stone typically found in its dry, inland regions. Which of these was officially recognized as the national gemstone to represent the country's natural heritage?

  1. The opalAnswer
  2. B
    The pearl
  3. C
    The emerald

Answer

The correct answer is the opal, which was officially designated as Australia's national gemstone in 1993.
The opal is officially recognized as the national gemstone of Australia. It was formally proclaimed as such in 19931993. This stone is deeply connected to the Australian landscape, as it is primarily found in the dry interior and Australia is the source of nearly 95%95\% of the world's precious opal supply.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the geographical context
The stone is found in dry, inland regions of Australia.
This helps narrow down the gemstone to those specifically associated with the Australian outback.
2
Recall official national symbols
Australia has several official symbols, including the national colors, floral emblem, and gemstone.
Official symbols are formally proclaimed by the government or Governor-General.
3
Match the gemstone to the official proclamation
The opal was proclaimed in 19931993 as the national gemstone.
The opal is unique to Australia's landscape, with the country producing approximately 95%95\% of the world's supply.

Key Concept

Australia's National Gemstone

Hints

1
Think of a stone famous for its 'play of colour' and for being found in the arid Australian outback.
2
This gemstone was officially proclaimed by the Governor-General in the early 1990s.

Practice More

Review other national symbols such as the national colors (green and gold) and the floral emblem (Golden Wattle).
Estimated Time:45s
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