0.69 Ct. Semi-Black Opal from Australia

One loose gemstone is described here, a translucent multi color opal weighing 0.69 carat, presented in a freeform outline with dimensions of 10.44 by 6.09 by 1.56 millimeters. The gem is classified as a Semi Black Opal, a type noted for its balance between dark body tone and vibrant play of color. The stone exhibits a freeform shape, which preserves natural material and maximizes visible color, and the cut is not applicable given the freeform cabochon style. The clarity has been evaluated at eye level and graded as eye clean, indicating no inclusions visible to the unaided eye under standard viewing. The color intensity of the specimen is assessed as intense, and the finish has an excellent polish that enhances surface luster and play of color. The opal has not undergone any enhancement, and its origin is Australia, a primary source for high quality opal material.

In hand the piece displays a lively and varied play of color across a translucent body, with flashes that include bright red and orange tones, electric blues, and occasional green and violet accents. These color flashes appear as patchy and pinfire patterns across the stone, shifting in appearance with changes in viewing angle and lighting. The translucency allows light to penetrate and interact with the internal structure of the opal, creating depth and an internal glow that complements the surface reflections. The freeform profile creates an organic silhouette that suits bespoke jewelry designs, and the relatively shallow depth of 1.56 millimeters favors settings that maintain low profile and wearer comfort. The overall visual impression is of an opal with balanced color distribution, where vivid color hotspots are interspersed with paler areas, yielding a dynamic and visually engaging gemstone.

From a gemological perspective the specimen presents a reliable combination of attributes, suitable for fine custom work. The eye clean clarity grade supports close mountings without requirement for protective bezels solely to conceal inclusions, though standard care for opal should be observed. The excellent polish contributes to controlled light return and minimizes surface diffusion of color, allowing the internal play of color to be seen with clarity. The lack of enhancement is a relevant factor for collectors and connoisseurs who prefer untreated natural material, and Australian provenance further supports market expectations for durability and color quality. When considering settings, the opal will perform well in pendants and earrings where planar exposure to light enhances the play of color, and it can also be set in rings with appropriate protective design to reduce risk of impact against harder materials.

The Natural Gemstone Company provides this opal as a single, documented piece, and the description above reflects measured dimensions and observed gemological characteristics. For design integration, recommended considerations include choosing a setting that balances protection and light exposure, selecting metals and complementary stones that do not overpower the opal, and allowing for a mounting that preserves the freeform silhouette. Routine care recommendations include avoiding harsh chemicals and extreme temperature changes, and arranging for periodic inspection of the setting to ensure stability. This detailed specification is intended to support informed decision making by jewelers, designers, and collectors, and it summarizes measurable and observable attributes including weight, dimensions, shape, type, clarity, color intensity, polish, enhancement status, and origin.