1.20 Ct. Cabochon White Opal from Australia

One beautiful opaque 1.20 carat pear shape multi color opal from The Natural Gemstone Company is presented for discerning buyers who value natural character and optical complexity. This gem measures 11.86 x 7.74 x 2.28 mm and is fashioned as a cabochon to maximize its play of color, the defining feature of opals. Identified as a White Opal, the stone exhibits a medium light color intensity that allows both the soft milky body tone and the internal flashes of color to remain visible from multiple viewing angles. The clarity grading is eye clean at eye level, which means no inclusions or disturbances are visible without magnification, and this clarity combined with an excellent polish results in a smooth dome and crisp color flashes across the pear shaped surface. There has been no enhancement to this opal, it is completely untreated, and its Australian origin contributes to its desirability because Australia remains the world s most respected source for white opals, particularly from established fields such as Coober Pedy where white opal forms with consistent body tone and predictable play of color.

For the educated buyer who evaluates gemstones by structure and origin, it is useful to understand why a white opal with multi color play holds value. The visible spectrum of reds, greens, and blues in this opal is generated by the diffraction of light through microscopic silica spheres arranged in a regular lattice within the hydrated silica matrix. The size and ordering of those spheres determine which colors are diffracted, and a multi color display indicates a range of sphere sizes and well ordered microstructure. The medium light body tone of this White Opal provides a pleasing balance, because a very dark body could obscure softer colors while a very pale, overly translucent base might wash out color contrast. With an opaque to semi opaque body the colors here appear vibrant and well contrasted against the milky white ground. The cabochon cut is the traditional and optimal style for opals, since the domed surface enhances the perception of depth and movement in the play of color, and the pear shape broadens design options for bespoke jewelry. The excellent polish indicates careful lapidary work, with a smoothly finished dome and well executed symmetry, so the stone will set securely and present consistently in professional mounting.

From a practical and investment oriented perspective, this opal warrants attention for several reasons. First, it is untreated, and natural, unenhanced opals command a premium among collectors and consumers who prioritize authenticity, because enhancements such as dyeing or resin impregnation alter natural stability and resale value. Second, the 1.20 carat weight in a well proportioned pear measures large enough to feature prominently in a ring or pendant while remaining practical for daily wear if set with protective design considerations. White Opals from Australia are prized for their balance of body tone and play of color, and provenance from a reputable source supports both marketability and long term value. Buyers should also consider care and durability. Opal is a hydrated silica with a Mohs hardness roughly between five and a half and six and a half, which means it is softer than many traditional jewelry gems and sensitive to sharp blows, extreme temperature changes, and prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaning. We recommend bezel or halo settings for rings, or use in pendants and earrings with secure mounts, and cleaning with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. At The Natural Gemstone Company we document origin, treatment status, and measured dimensions, and we invite buyers to request a detailed report or additional high resolution images to assess color play under different lighting conditions. For customers interested in bespoke mounting or pairing with complementary stones, our team is available to advise on design choices that preserve the integrity of the opal while showcasing its multi color play, and we provide full disclosure and support to ensure this White Opal becomes a lasting, cherished piece in your collection.