11.97 Ct. Cabochon White Opal from Burma (Myanmar)

This item is a single, opaque, 11.97 carat oval bluish green jade, presented in a classic cabochon form. Dimensions are 19.95 x 14.99 x 4.48 mm, with an overall profile suited to ring or pendant settings. Clarity is graded very slightly included when evaluated at eye level, and color intensity reads as medium light, producing a soft bluish green appearance across the dome. The surface exhibits an excellent polish that enhances the stone s natural luster, and the piece is unenhanced, retaining its natural state from origin. This jade is sourced from Burma Myanmar, a region historically important to the gem trade, and the combination of size, origin, and untreated status are central to its character and market positioning.

From a gemological perspective the cabochon cut emphasizes the stone s body color and surface sheen rather than internal transparency, which is consistent with its described opaque nature. The very slight inclusions visible at eye level are typical for material of this type and do not materially detract from surface smoothness or wearability. The medium light bluish green tone offers versatility in design while maintaining a distinct identity distinct from both deep emerald tones and pale pastel varieties. The excellent polish and well executed oval outline provide clean lines for setting, and the substantial dimensions make it suitable for a statement piece while remaining manageable in custom settings that prioritize comfort and durability.

Regarding investment potential and future appreciation in value, several factors are pertinent. Provenance from Burma Myanmar is a meaningful attribute in secondary market valuation, particularly for untreated jadeite material, because collectors and connoisseurs place a premium on natural Burmese sources. The absence of enhancements elevates the piece s desirability relative to otherwise similar stones that have been dyed or polymer treated, as untreated status supports clearer comparability across long term sales records. Size is a further consideration, as stones approaching the 12 carat range shift into a less common bracket for present day market supply, enhancing potential scarcity. Market demand for quality jade remains regionally strong and internationally recognized collectors continue to allocate capital to well documented, untreated material. That said appreciation is influenced by broader economic cycles, buyer preferences, regulatory constraints on mining and export, and the availability of verifiable laboratory documentation. No guarantee of future price movement can be made, and prospective buyers should consider certification from an independent gemological laboratory, professional appraisals, and secure storage and insurance as part of a disciplined acquisition strategy.

For context and comparative perspective, white opal is noted for its distinct set of valuation drivers and aesthetic qualities. White opal is characterized by a light body tone typically described as white or pale, and value is derived primarily from the intensity and pattern of play of color, body clarity, and the cut. White opal markets and collector bases differ from jade markets, with strong interest in specimens that display vivid, broad play of color and unusual patterns. In contrast to this unenhanced Burmese jade, white opal investments tend to be evaluated on the merits of their optical phenomena and relative rarity of fine play of color for a given size and clarity. When considering a diversified gemstone allocation, understanding these divergent drivers helps inform decisions, as jade tends to attract collectors focused on origin, treatment history, and cultural demand, while white opal appeals to collectors prioritizing optical spectacle and uniqueness. For guidance on provenance documentation, comparative market records, and handling recommendations, The Natural Gemstone Company can provide authenticated images, condition reports, and assistance in securing third party laboratory certificates to support responsible acquisition and future resale.