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Charity opal a real gem

Ashlea Walley with the opal pendant and David Wirrapanda. Picture: Michael O'Brien/ The West Australian

One-of-a-kind and worth more than $30,000, it is the piece of jewellery that will have even David Wirrpanda biting his nails.

The 16.07-carat opal pendant will be one of the most hotly anticipated items when it goes under the hammer at the former West Coast Eagle's Wirrpanda Foundation fundraising dinner tonight.

If the bids match the $32,000 pendant's valuation, it will be the most expensive piece of jewellery sold in the event's eight years.

The opal was the standout of 98 opals donated by Tony and Julie Elwood who have supported the foundation for many years.

Jeweller Rohan Milne, who created the piece for the auction, said the gem includes red flecks which were rare and increased its value greatly.

"I looked at the majority of the opals and this one just jumped out," he said.

The opal has been set in yellow and white gold with 17 diamonds.

Wirrpanda said it will be a nerve-racking time when the pendant, modelled by the foundation's Ashlea Walley, goes under the hammer.

"I do get a bit nervous during the night because you want it to be bought for its full value," he said.

The event raises money to help improve the quality of life for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.