1.11 Ct. Cabochon Semi-Black Opal from Australia

This piece is a transparent semi black opal weighing 1.11 carats, with precise dimensions of 12.07 x 6.74 x 2.54 mm, presented in a classical pear shape cabochon. The cutter retained a low to moderate dome to maximize internal play of color while preserving the depth of field through the 2.54 mm thickness, producing an optical window that reveals layered flashes rather than surface glints. The specimen exhibits intense color intensity, with broad flashes of green and orange red distributed across the table, and secondary flashes of blue and yellow under oblique light. The body tone reads as a semi black base, providing elevated contrast that accentuates even subtle color patches, the overall effect being a multi color palette with high saturation and excellent color coverage. Polish is excellent, free of polish pits and abrasions, and the piece is natural without enhancement, not a doublet or triplet, originating from Australia, and curated by The Natural Gemstone Company.

From a technical standpoint the cabochon cut emphasizes continuous play of color rather than faceted brilliance, the pear outline offers a versatile profile for precision bezel or protective prong settings, and the symmetry of the outline supports consistent orientation to optimize color directionality in finished jewelry. The cutter preserved natural contours to maintain weight and internal pattern, resulting in stable color patches that shift from banded broad flash to patchy mosaic with viewing angle, indicating a range of diffraction spacing within the silica microstructure. For setting recommendations, the depth and translucency favor a slightly elevated bezel to allow light entry while protecting the girdle, and a pendant mount is ideal to showcase the elongated pear silhouette and layered color movement. As this opal is untreated and of natural origin, standard precautions apply, such as avoiding prolonged exposure to heat and harsh chemicals, and providing impact protection due to opal lower hardness on the Mohs scale. For specialists seeking a high contrast, intensely colored Australian semi black opal with verified dimensions and exceptional polish, The Natural Gemstone Company can provide additional images, viewing angle notes, and matching options for bespoke settings.