18.97 Ct. Cabochon White Opal from Australia

This exceptional gem offered by The Natural Gemstone Company is an IGI certified Grey, 18.97 carat pear shape multi color opal, with dimensions of 26.80 x 17.10 x 8.20 mm, cut as a cabochon, graded as very slightly included at eye level, showing a medium intense color intensity, and finished with an excellent polish, enhancement none, origin Australia, lab color classification Grey, opal type White Opal. The certificate from IGI accompanies the stone, confirming its natural origin and the absence of treatments. At nearly 19 carats this piece commands presence, the classic pear silhouette lending itself beautifully to pendants and statement rings, and the cabochon dome height is precisely what allows the full spectrum of play of color to present itself without obstruction. The combination of a translucent body with a grey base tone produces a delicate, ethereal backdrop that allows flashes of color to appear vivid yet soft, creating an elegant balance that collectors and designers prize.

Visually the opal rewards the viewer with a lively mosaic of red, green, and orange flashes, with occasional hints of yellow and blue dancing across the surface as the light moves, the fire emerging in patches and broad flashes that travel across the pear shape as the piece is turned. The translucency gives depth to the color play, allowing internal layers to reveal themselves and creating a sense of moving color that changes with viewing angle, this is characteristic of a fine White Opal that benefits from a grey body tone since the cooler base can accentuate warmer color flashes. The cabochon cut maximizes this optical phenomenon by presenting a high, smooth dome that acts as a window into the internal structure of the opal, and the excellent polish enhances luster and clarity of the color patches. At 26.80 x 17.10 x 8.20 mm the stone is large enough to become the focal element in jewelry, and its balanced pear outline offers a graceful taper that flatters settings intended to elongate and highlight the wearer.

From a gemological perspective this White Opal, originating from Australia, is particularly desirable because it is natural and unenhanced, which is verified by the IGI report that accompanies it. The clarity description of very slightly included indicates that inclusions are minimal and only noticeable under careful inspection, while the medium intense color intensity describes the strength of the internal play rather than surface saturation, a nuance that experienced collectors and jewelers will appreciate. As with all opals, the internal structure contains a degree of hydration and microstructure that makes careful handling important, avoid exposure to extreme heat, prolonged direct sunlight, and harsh chemicals, cleaning is best achieved with warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush, ultrasonic and steam cleaners should be avoided to prevent microfracturing or dehydration, and for settings that will see frequent wear consider protective designs such as bezels that shield the edges and secure the gem while allowing light to reveal its colors.

As your gem specialist at The Natural Gemstone Company I can tell you that an opal of this size, quality, and presentation is rare in todays market, the combination of a substantial carat weight, a balanced pear shape, an excellent polish, and IGI certification makes it an exceptional candidate for an heirloom piece or a bespoke commission. We include the IGI report with purchase so you receive full documentation, and we are happy to provide additional high resolution images and video under different lighting to demonstrate the play of color and translucency, our team can also advise on setting options that both protect the stone and showcase its unique color performance, if you prefer a classic pendant the pear shape will sit elegantly at the throat, if you prefer a ring a protective bezel or partial bezel with prongs in strategic places can combine beauty with security. We stand behind the natural, untreated character of this opal, and we are available to discuss any aspect of the gem, from lapidary details to design ideas, so you can feel confident in selecting a piece that will be treasured for generations.