0.82 Ct. Opal from Mexico

Opal is a captivating gemstone that has mesmerized people for centuries. Its popularity endures due to its unique play-of-color property, where the stone flashes iridescent colors when viewed from different angles. Among the various types of opals, orange opal stands out for its warm, fiery hues that can range from a golden sunset to the deepest amber.
The described gemstone is a fine example of an orange opal with several remarkable features. It is semi-transparent, which allows light to pass through and interact with the silica spheres within the opal, creating a play-of-color that is one of the defining characteristics of opals. This particular stone weighs 0.82 carats and has an oval shape with dimensions of 7.21 x 5.44 x 3.59 mm, which makes it a suitable centerpiece for an array of jewelry types such as rings or pendants.
What makes this opal standout is the double cabochon cut. This dome-shaped cut enhances the stone's luster, capturing and reflecting light to showcase its vivid, intense color and the three-dimensional depth of the gem. The stone has been graded 'eye clean', meaning it lacks visible inclusions or blemishes when observed with the naked eye, assuring its purity and visual clarity. The excellent polish on this Mexican-origin gem contributes to its brilliance and smooth finish, making it a high-quality specimen.
Opals are generally used in jewelry to craft pieces that are ideal for making bold statements or for adding an element of magical color play to an outfit. They are often set in bracelets, necklaces, rings, and earrings, and can be paired with various precious metals and other gemstones.
Imagine a pair of intricately designed opal earrings crafted with these orange opals. The earrings could possibly feature a halo of micro-pavé diamonds encircling the opal, adding an extra layer of shimmer against the warm tones of the central gemstone. The orange opals could be set in a rich 18-karat yellow gold to emphasize the fiery depth of color within each opal.
The craftsmanship details might include delicate filigree work along the sides of the settings or scrollwork on the back, not only providing structural support but also an additional element of beauty. Attention to detail in carving, engraving, and finishing could give these earrings a vintage-inspired charm or embrace a more contemporary sleek design, depending on the jeweler's vision.
In terms of overall aesthetic appeal, the orange opals would likely be the stars of the show, their vibrant color and iridescence drawing the eye, while the surrounding materials and craftsmanship details complement and enhance their natural beauty. The finished earrings would be not just a piece of jewelry, but wearable art, signifying sophistication and a keen appreciation for one of nature's true wonders.