0.86 Ct. Black Opal from Australia

There is a quiet, enduring majesty to a Black Opal that speaks to centuries of human fascination, and this translucent 0.86 carat freeform opal from Australia is a wonderful example. Opal type Black Opal, freeform shape, measuring 10.27 by 7.64 by 1.85 millimeters, the cut is not applicable, the clarity grade is very slightly included, evaluated at eye level, the color intensity is intense, and the polish is excellent. Mined from the storied Australian fields that have produced some of the world s finest specimens, this gem shows the same timeless character that has made opal a symbol of mystery and refinement since antiquity. The play of color within this stone reads like a miniature, ever shifting landscape, with flashes of deep crimson, oceanic blues, and verdant greens moving beneath a dark canvas. Those colors glow with a saturated brilliance because the material has not been treated, enhancement none, which preserves the natural integrity that collectors and connoisseurs most revere.

When you hold this Black Opal under changing light the first impression is of depth, as though you are looking into a small universe where color and shadow converse. The translucent body allows the vivid internal fire to take on almost three dimensional qualities, while the dark background characteristic of Black Opal provides dramatic contrast that sharpens red and blue flashes alike. The freeform silhouette has been skillfully shaped to follow the stone s natural color pattern, a choice that honors the gem s origin rather than forcing symmetry at the expense of its optical virtues. With a weight of 0.86 carat the stone is compact yet commanding, suitable for a centerpiece in a delicate ring or a refined pendant where its shifting colors can be enjoyed close to the skin or viewed against soft light.

In a design context this Black Opal lends itself to classic settings that emphasize legacy and wearability, settings that will age gracefully and become heirloom pieces for generations. Because of the very slightly included clarity and the shallow depth of the freeform, a bezel mounting or low profile basket will both protect the opal while showcasing its surface polish and intense coloration. For those who prefer a more traditional presentation a simple gold or platinum bezel recalls Victorian and Edwardian sensibilities that celebrated rare stones with restrained metal work. For a contemporary yet timeless aesthetic, a soft halo of small diamonds or a line of pavé along a tapered setting will accentuate the play of color without competing with the stone s natural drama. Our team at The Natural Gemstone Company can advise on metal choice and mounting style to ensure the gem is secure, comfortable to wear, and presented in a way that preserves its beauty.

Provenance, care, and the sense of history are integral to owning a Black Opal, and this piece arrives with the assurance of its Australian origin and its untreated state. As specialists we at The Natural Gemstone Company take pride in presenting gems that honor both their geological story and the human traditions of craftsmanship that surround them. Opals are relatively delicate compared to traditional faceted gems, so avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat and sudden impacts, clean with a soft cloth and mild soapy water, and remove jewelry during heavy activity to preserve polish and color. If you would like assistance creating a custom mount that complements the stone s freeform silhouette, or if you would like further photographs and lighting views to appreciate the full range of its fire, we would be delighted to assist. This Black Opal is an invitation to own something that feels ancient and perpetually new, a small jewel that carries a long history and the promise of future stories.