1.18 Ct. Crystal/Jelly Opal from Australia

This listing presents one beautiful translucent 1.18 carat freeform Crystal Jelly Opal from Australia, offered by The Natural Gemstone Company. The stone measures 13.26 by 8.30 by 1.67 millimeters, and it carries a cut not applicable designation due to its freeform shaping rather than a faceted or standard cabochon profile. Clarity has been graded as eye clean, evaluated at eye level, which indicates no visible inclusions or fractures that detract from the gem when viewed without magnification. Color intensity is described as intense, and the polish has been rated excellent, producing a smooth surface that enhances the opal s play of color and optical depth. There has been no enhancement applied to this specimen, which means the colors and translucency are entirely natural and unaltered, an important attribute for collectors and connoisseurs who prioritize untreated material.

From a gemological perspective, this Crystal Jelly Opal deserves attention for several reasons that matter to an educated buyer. Crystal Jelly Opals are characterized by their high degree of translucency, often approaching a glasslike clarity, which allows light to penetrate and interact with the internal silica spheres that produce the opal s signature play of color. In this example, the translucence enables lively, multi color flashes across green, blue, and subtle warm hues that shift with viewing angle and light source, a key indicator of structural quality in opal. The eye clean clarity grade means the internal structure is relatively uniform and free from distracting potch areas or large veinlike disruptions, so the color patches appear uninterrupted and well defined. Intense color intensity in combination with crisp play of color increases visual impact and market desirability, because opals that display saturated, vivid color across the stone command a premium over pale or weakly colored material. The excellent polish contributes to efficient light return and a pleasing tactile finish, which is particularly important for a freeform that will likely be showcased in open settings or as a focal element in bespoke jewelry.

The origin, Australia, further enhances the gem s provenance and value. Australian opals, especially those from established fields, are widely regarded for stable structure and strong play of color, and they have a long history in both trade and scientific study. Buyers attentive to origin look for Australian sourcing as an indicator of genuine, high quality opal material, rather than treated or assembled alternatives. The absence of enhancement is especially relevant because some opals on the market are stabilized, dyed, or assembled into doublets and triplets to simulate better color and durability. This Crystal Jelly Opal is solid, natural, and untreated, so it retains authentic weight and optical behavior without laminates or backing materials that alter light transmission. For the technically minded purchaser, the combination of solid natural material, transparent to translucent body, and intense, sharply defined play of color is a clear signal of a specimen with long term collector and jewelry value.

Practical considerations for use and care align with the gem s physical attributes. At 1.18 carats and with a thickness of 1.67 millimeters, this freeform piece is ideal for pendant designs, delicate earrings, or a protective bezel set in a ring where the metal setting shields the periphery. If set in a ring, a low profile bezel or a secure channel that minimizes exposure to knocks will help preserve the opal s thin edge. Cleaning should be gentle, using mild soapy water and a soft cloth, avoiding ultrasonic baths and steam cleaning, because sudden mechanical or thermal stress can cause crazing in opal. For buyers seeking documentation, The Natural Gemstone Company can advise on optional third party certification and provide provenance details to accompany the purchase, supporting insurance, resale, or appraisal needs. Overall, this Crystal Jelly Opal represents a strong proposition for collectors and designers alike, combining eye clean clarity, intense play of color, natural Australian origin, and an excellent polish that together make it a valuable addition to a discerning gem portfolio.