13.46 Ct. Cabochon White Opal from Australia

This 13.46 carat Australian white opal presents a rare combination of size, uniformity, and optical display, qualities that distinguish it as a premium offering from The Natural Gemstone Company. The stone is fashioned into an oval shape with finished dimensions of 18.00 x 16.31 x 8.82 mm, proportions that preserve an ideal balance between surface area and depth for maximum color presentation in a cabochon form. The weight of 13.46 carats is particularly significant in opal grading, as larger carat weights increase the visual impact of play of color while requiring exceptional rough to avoid internal discontinuities. For collectors and designers who prioritize substance as well as spectacle, the carat weight alone signals a high tier specimen, and the precise millimeter dimensions ensure predictable setting choices for ring, pendant, or bespoke jewelry designs.

Optical characteristics of this white opal are described by its multi color play of color and a medium intense color intensity, attributes that yield lively flashes across the visible spectrum without an overpowering dark ground. As a white opal, the body tone is light, permitting color to appear as delicate but distinct patches of red, orange, green, and blue across the table. The stone exhibits broad and patchy pattern elements with areas of more distinct mosaic flashes, a distribution that reads consistently across the dome when the piece is rotated. The opal is opaque in base translucency, which in combination with the opal structure enhances the vibrancy of the surface colors. Under controlled lighting the play of color remains stable, demonstrating a favorable relationship between body tone, internal spacing of silica spheres, and viewing angle.

From a lapidary perspective the cabochon cut employed on this specimen reflects advanced craftsmanship. The dome height is calibrated to maximize color reflection while avoiding excessive risk to thin edges, and the oval outline is symmetrical with uniform thickness across the girdle plane. The polish is graded excellent, indicating careful progression through abrasive grits and final lapping to remove micro abrasions and to allow uninterrupted light transmission across the surface. Clarity is graded as very slightly included when evaluated at eye level, meaning that small internal features are present but do not obstruct the play of color or detract from the surface quality under normal observation. No enhancement has been applied to this opal, the material is natural and untreated, so the stone preserves original moisture content and internal structure, factors that experienced gem professionals recognize as critical to long term stability and value.

Provenance and practical considerations further affirm this gem as a premium acquisition from The Natural Gemstone Company. Origin in Australian fields is associated with consistent formation characteristics and predictable quality of white opal, and this example displays the hallmarks of that source in its silica structure and color behavior. For setting recommendations consider secure bezel or low profile prong designs that support the dome and distribute stress around the perimeter, avoiding high impact or rapid temperature change that can induce crazing in opal material. Relative hardness and sensitivity require careful handling during manufacture and wear, and the untreated nature should be considered in cleaning and maintenance protocols, using only mild detergents and avoiding ultrasonic or steam cleaning. Taken together the sizable carat weight, measured proportions, calibrated cabochon dome, medium intense multi color play, very slightly included clarity at eye level, excellent polish, absence of treatment, and Australian origin make this 13.46 carat white opal a refined choice for connoisseurs and high end jewelry designers seeking an exceptional, naturally formed specimen.