0.49 Ct. Semi-Black Opal from Australia

Introducing a remarkable example of nature at its most playful, a translucent pear shape multi color opal, weighing 0.49 carat, offered by The Natural Gemstone Company. This is a Semi Black Opal, a highly sought after variety that displays deep, dramatic body tone with an inner fire that seems to float beneath the surface. The stone measures 6.92 x 5.85 x 2.05 mm, a comfortable size for designing a classic drop pendant or a refined solitaire ring. The gem has been fashioned in a tablet cut, which allows the vibrant colors to appear broad and jewel like across the surface, while maintaining a pleasing profile for mounting. The clarity of the opal is graded very slightly included, evaluated at eye level, which means that to the unaided eye the stone reads clean and the inclusions do not distract from the overall beauty. The polish on this opal is excellent, yielding a smooth, lustrous surface that enhances the play of color, and there has been no enhancement applied, so you are receiving a natural, untreated gemstone with verified Australian origin.

When you view this Semi Black Opal, the most striking feature is the intense color intensity, a lively spectrum of greens, blues, oranges and reds that flash and shift as the angle of light changes. Because the stone is translucent, the colors seem to have depth, and the tablet cut amplifies the mosaic like patches of play of color, making each movement of the wearer reveal a new composition. The pear shape is elegant and versatile, tapering to a subtle point that can be oriented toward the neck in a pendant or toward the fingertip in a ring, creating a sense of elongation and grace. At 0.49 carat this opal balances presence with wearability, substantial enough to anchor a fine piece of jewelry, yet refined enough to be comfortable for everyday wear. The Australian origin is important for connoisseurs, as Australian opals are renowned for their stable color play and rich body tones, and this Semi Black Opal exemplifies those qualities with its dramatic palette and pleasing translucency.

For design and setting ideas, this opal lends itself beautifully to a range of metals and styles, depending on the desired effect. If you want to intensify the contrast and emphasize the dark body tone, a setting in yellow gold will bring warmth and boost the reds and oranges in the play of color, while a white gold or platinum setting will offer a modern, cool backdrop that allows blues and greens to sing. Rose gold provides a romantic, vintage leaning option, a soft counterpoint to the opal colors. The tablet cut and slightly domed surface mean the gem sits naturally in a bezel or partial bezel for protection, or in a secure claw setting if you prefer to maximize light exposure and visibility. Because the gem is a pear shape, designers often choose asymmetric accent stones or tapered side stones to complement the tapered profile, small diamonds or sapphires on one side create elegant movement without competing with the opal. This 6.92 x 5.85 x 2.05 mm size also makes for a stunning drop earring pair if matched to a companion stone, or a singular statement earring or pendant for a focused, artistic look.

Caring for your Semi Black Opal is straightforward, and when properly looked after this natural treasure will provide decades of enjoyment. Avoid exposure to extreme heat, harsh chemicals, and ultrasonic cleaners, and when cleaning use a soft cloth and mild soap with lukewarm water, rinse gently and dry thoroughly. Because this opal has not been enhanced, it is an authentic gemstone whose value is tied to its natural qualities and provenance, and The Natural Gemstone Company stands behind that authenticity. We are happy to provide detailed images, handling recommendations, and expert guidance on setting and insurance, and we offer secure packaging and insured shipping for items of this value. If you are considering this opal for an engagement ring, a bespoke pendant, or a collector piece, reach out to our gem specialists, we can discuss custom mounting options, matching pairs, and any certificate or documentation you would like to accompany the gem. Owning this Semi Black Opal is owning a small piece of Australian fire, a beautiful, intense, and natural gem that will draw the eye and spark conversation for years to come.