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

This pair of Australian Semi-Black Opals presents a technically refined package for the discerning buyer, with weights of 1.07 carats and 1.12 carats respectively, and oval dimensions of 9.80 x 7.87 x 2.15 mm, and 9.75 x 7.88 x 2.47 mm. Both stones are cabochon cut, exhibiting a carefully controlled dome profile that maximizes play of color while maintaining structural thickness for stability. The translucency is notable, allowing internal diffraction of light across a semi dark body tone typical of semi black opal, which enhances color contrast without the fully dark matrix of true black opal. Color presentation is intense, with broad flashes of red, green, and blue dispersed across the surfaces, and the patterning shows both patchy and fluid areas indicative of well oriented silica sphere layering. Clarity is graded eye clean at normal viewing distance, implying the absence of inclusions that would interrupt the play of color, and the polish is graded excellent, producing uniform luster and minimal surface blemish. No enhancement has been applied, the material is natural Australian opal, and cut symmetry and matched dimensions indicate these pieces were selected and finished as a coordinated pair.

From a lapidary and setting perspective, the measured thicknesses of 2.15 mm and 2.47 mm provide sufficient depth to allow secure bezel or low profile prong mounting, while preserving the optimal dome curvature for maximum color flash. The cabochon faceting approach employed emphasizes surface continuity, with a smooth transition from girdle to apex to support directional color movement when the stones are rotated, an important consideration for jewelry designs intended to showcase dynamic play of color. These opals respond well to lighting variation, exhibiting stronger red and orange flashes under cooler, more directional sources, and broader green and blue fields under diffuse lighting, which can be used intentionally in design to control visual impact. Care recommendations include avoiding prolonged exposure to solvents and extreme heat, using only mild soapy water and a soft brush for cleaning, and selecting mounting techniques that allow for gentle expansion and contraction. The Natural Gemstone Company stands behind the provenance and finishing of this matched Semi-Black Opal pair, and can provide additional measurements, viewing images under standardized lighting, and guidance for optimal setting choices.