It cannot be valued in the gold of Ophir: the verb translated valued occurs only here and in verse 19, and in another form in Lamentations 4.2 (“worth their weight”). It has to do with weighing to determine value and is adequately translated in English by Revised Standard Version or by saying “You cannot measure its worth….” In the expression gold of Ophir, the word for gold is again different, but coupled with Ophir it clearly refers to a fine quality of gold. Ophir was used in 22.24 as the name of a place known for its gold. See there for comments. Biblia Dios Habla Hoy says “One cannot pay for it with the most precious gold.”

In precious onyx or sapphire: the word translated onyx is paired with “fine gold” in Genesis 2.12. The identification of the precious stones named in this verse is not possible. The one translated onyx has been rendered by many other names of gems, such as sardonyx, beryl, carnelian, and malachite. It was found on the breast plate of the high priest’s robe (Exo 28.20), and on the ephod (Exo 25.7). Sapphire is the same gem as in verse 6. Good News Translation avoids reference to any specific gems by saying “The finest gold and jewels cannot equal its value.” Since the exact nature of these gems is uncertain, a translation using generic terms such as Good News Translation is quite adequate.

Quoted with permission from Reyburn, Wiliam. A Handbook on Job. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1992. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .