1.02 Ct.Tw.Total Carat Weight Cabochon Opal Pair from Australia

This pair of translucent, oval White Opals presents a precise combination of measurements and optical character that will appeal to discerning buyers who prioritize technical quality and matched pairs for finished jewelry. Individually the stones weigh 0.55 carats and 0.47 carats, producing a balanced matched set for a variety of earring and matched pendant applications, the weight differential being only 0.08 carats. The first stone measures 7.92 by 5.99 by 1.96 millimeters, and the second measures 7.94 by 5.85 by 1.56 millimeters, dimensions that yield classic oval proportions with a low to moderate dome profile, suitable for secure bezel or semi bezel settings. Both stones are cabochon cut, a cutting style selected to maximize the structural interplay of internal silica spheres that produces play-of-color in opal, and both are identified as originating from Australia with no enhancement, confirming natural formation and stable provenance for collectors and artisans who require untreated material.

From a lapidary and gemological perspective, the cutting and polish demonstrate careful workmanship. The cabochon profile on each stone has been controlled to present an even curved surface that amplifies the internal diffraction of light while minimizing surface curvature stress that can lead to edge fragility, the higher dome on the 1.96 millimeter stone emphasizing broader flashes of color, the slightly lower dome on the 1.56 millimeter stone favoring a more distributed pinfire and small flash pattern. The polish on both stones is graded excellent, indicating a high level of lapidary finish with uniform light return and absence of polishing haze or residual nicks when examined at typical loupe magnifications. The clarity grade is very slightly included, evaluated at eye level, which for opal typically represents minor potch bands or microscopic mineral traces that do not interrupt the overall play-of-color or structural integrity when set, and which remain within expectations for natural White Opal. Color intensity is described as medium light, consistent with a white body tone where translucent to semi-translucent ground color permits multi color play-of-color including green, red and blue flashes that shift with orientation, a desirable trait for clients seeking opals with lively color play without the darker body tone of crystal or black opal categories.

Practical considerations for bench setting, wear, and long term care are important given the material properties of opal and the specific proportions of these pieces. White Opal typically exhibits a refractive index near 1.45 and a Mohs hardness in the range of approximately 5.5 to 6.5, therefore secure protection of the girdle and peripheral zones is recommended, with bezel or partial bezel settings favored to shield the low edges and maintain alignment in wear. For this paired set, a matched bezel thickness that accommodates the 7.92 by 5.99 by 1.96 millimeter and 7.94 by 5.85 by 1.56 millimeter profiles will ensure consistent visual presentation and mechanical security, and the near identical length values facilitate symmetrical earring designs. Because these stones are natural, unenhanced, and Australian in origin, they respond well to gentle cleaning methods, warm water and mild detergent with a soft brush, avoiding steam, ultrasonic cleaners, and prolonged exposure to extreme heat or desiccation. The Natural Gemstone Company stands behind the provenance and grading data provided, and we recommend consideration of a formal gemological report for buyers requiring independent verification for insurance or high end settings, our team is available to advise on mounting geometry, recommended bezel dimensions, and complementary metal choices to optimize the visual interaction between the medium light body tone and the multicolored play-of-color.