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

This matched pair of pear shaped Boulder Opal cabochons from The Natural Gemstone Company presents an exceptional opportunity for the collector or designer seeking statement pieces with museum quality presence. The two stones weigh 43.13 carats and 47.21 carats respectively, and measure 38.00 x 17.80 x 6.60 millimeters, and 38.10 x 18.60 x 7.10 millimeters. Both are cut as smooth cabochons, with an excellent polish that enhances the play of color and surface luster. These opals are opaque with intense color intensity, and the multi color play is vivid against a dark ironstone matrix. The stones are enhanced as doublets, a common and accepted treatment for thin or seam opal, and the origin is Australia, a region renowned for producing some of the finest Boulder Opal specimens in the world. The combination of large carat weight, matched shape and size, and the dramatic color pattern make this pair especially desirable for high impact pairings such as drop earrings or matched pendant and brooch designs.

When assessing these Boulder Opals for grading and clarity, it is important to consider the attributes that determine opal value, rather than applying metrics used for faceted gems. Opal grading emphasizes body tone, brightness, pattern, color range, and clarity or transparency. These pieces show a dark body tone due to the ironstone backing, which in turn increases perceived brightness and saturation of the play of color. The brightness or intensity of the color flashes is excellent, with strong greens and blues and occasional flashes of yellow and aqua visible across the surfaces. The pattern is dramatic and irregular, with organic veins of opal running through the ironstone matrix, a hallmark of Boulder Opal that collectors prize for its natural contrast and depth. In terms of clarity, these opals are opaque, which is consistent with high quality boulder material, and the surfaces are free from significant pits or scratches thanks to the precise cabochon cut and superior polish.

The enhancement as doublets bears directly on value and use, and should be understood by any educated buyer. Doublets are created by adhering a slice of precious opal to a dark backing, often ironstone or another stable material, to maximize color and create a visually solid appearance while conserving rare opal material. In the case of Boulder Opal doublets, the backing is often the natural ironstone itself, which preserves the authentic character of the material while enhancing color. Doublets are distinct from triplets in that they lack the protective transparent cap, which makes the surface polish and workmanship particularly important. These pieces have been expertly finished, and the excellent polish provides a durable and attractive surface for jewelry settings. Compared to solid opal, doublets typically offer a more affordable route to larger, vividly colored stones, while still retaining much of the aesthetic appeal of solid precious opal. For collectors who prioritize size, color intensity, and matched pairs, well made doublets such as these represent outstanding value.

For practical use, design, and care, these matched pear shaped Boulder Opals lend themselves to elegant drop earring configurations, a matched pendant and stud set, or a paired focal in a bespoke necklace. The cabochon profile will sit securely in bezel or prong settings designed to support the thin edges of doublet work, and skilled setters will ensure that edges are protected to avoid impact or moisture infiltration. Care recommendations include avoiding prolonged exposure to harsh cleaning chemicals, extreme heat, or ultrasonic cleaners, using only a soft cloth and mild soapy water for gentle cleaning, and storing the pieces separately to prevent surface abrasion. Because these are doublets, it is advisable to avoid prolonged soaking or exposure to solvents which could compromise the adhesive layer. The provenance from Australia and the identifiable boulder matrix enhance both the story and the collectability of the stones, and The Natural Gemstone Company stands behind the authenticity of this pair. We can provide additional high resolution images, trimming and setting recommendations, and documentation upon request for buyers and designers who require examination prior to purchase. For further inquiries, viewing arrangements, or bespoke design consultation, please contact The Natural Gemstone Company for personalized assistance.