1.03 Ct. Cabochon White Opal from Australia

This listing presents a White Opal, a translucent multi color specimen weighing 1.03 carat, with dimensions of 7.92 x 6.10 x 3.98 mm, sourced from Australia. The gem is fashioned as an oval cabochon cut, exhibiting a clean, well executed dome and an overall presentation that emphasizes the opal body and internal play of color. The body tone classifies as white to light, with translucency sufficient to allow internal flashes to be seen from multiple viewing angles. The clarity grade is eye clean when evaluated at normal eye level, and the surface finish is described as excellent polish, reflecting the careful lapidary work that preserves the opal surface integrity. This White Opal is presented by The Natural Gemstone Company as a natural, untreated piece, enhancement none, suitable for collectors and designers who prioritize natural optical phenomena and untreated material provenance.

From a cutting and proportion perspective this oval has a length to width ratio of approximately 1.30, a dimension set that balances aesthetic elongation with secure mounting possibilities. The cabochon dome height is substantial relative to its planar dimensions, with the 3.98 mm thickness providing approximately fifty percent depth relative to the length, a proportion that favors amplification of the opal play of color. The lapidary work demonstrates symmetrical shaping and an even profile, with well blended transitions from crown to girdle and a neatly finished base. The polish stage has been executed to remove lap lines and abrasion, resulting in a high gloss that maximizes light interaction with the microstructure of silica spheres responsible for opal diffraction. These proportions and finishing choices reflect intentional craftsmanship designed to showcase internal color without sacrificing structural stability during setting.

Optical characteristics are detailed to inform placement and appraisal decisions. The play of color in this specimen manifests predominantly in greens and blues, with intermittent yellow tones, producing a lively multi color display against the white body tone. The color intensity is graded medium, indicating that flashes are readily visible under ambient and directional lighting, yet not saturated to the point of obscuring body tone nuances. The patterning combines small pinfire elements with occasional broader flashes, allowing for visual interest when the gem is rotated. Because of the gem translucency the play of color is visible through the depth of the stone as well as on the surface, which contributes to a three dimensional visual effect. Viewing orientation is relevant for presentation, as the strongest flashes appear along the central axis of the oval, suggesting that a north south orientation in a typical ring or pendant setting will optimize the visual impact.

Clarity assessment and treatment disclosure are critical for valuation and care considerations. The piece is eye clean at typical viewing distances, with no included fractures or potch zones that detract at eye level. The origin Australia is noted for its geological context and typical white opal characteristics, and there is no enhancement reported, this opal is natural and untreated. From a durability standpoint opal requires mindful handling, given its relatively low hardness compared to corundum and diamond, and its susceptibility to dehydration and thermal shock. Avoid ultrasonic cleaning and exposure to prolonged heat or harsh chemicals, and store the stone with a slight humidity buffer if kept long term. For setting recommendations a bezel mount provides the best protection for the cabochon profile and reduces edge exposure and mechanical stress, alternatively a protective gallery or partial bezel can secure the gem while allowing light entry to enhance play of color. If a designer prefers maximum light interaction, an open back is acceptable, however caution is advised to prevent impact on the base.

In conclusion this 1.03 carat Australian White Opal, 7.92 x 6.10 x 3.98 mm, cabochon cut, translucent, with medium color intensity, eye clean clarity, excellent polish, and no enhancement, represents a strong choice for a refined opal piece where natural play of color and lapidary quality are priorities. The stone is well suited for bespoke jewelry in a protective setting such as a bezel pendant or conservative ring mount, and The Natural Gemstone Company stands by the sourcing and grading information provided. We invite technical inquiries regarding mounting tolerances, recommended setting alloys, and lighting conditions for optimal display, and we can supply additional high resolution captures or viewing under specified light sources on request.