2.22 Ct. Cabochon White Opal from Australia

This listing presents one translucent 2.22 carat oval shape multi color opal, dimensions 10.11 x 8.06 x 4.18 mm, cabochon cut, Opal type White Opal, origin Australia, enhancement no enhancement. The weight and proportions place this gem in a comfortable size class for both bespoke jewelry and collector cabinets, with an oval outline that measures approximately 10 by 8 millimeters and a dome height that balances play of color with wearable profile. The body tone is consistent with White Opal class, providing a light to neutral background that allows color diffraction to appear across the surface rather than being absorbed by a dark matrix. The polish has been evaluated as excellent, producing even light return and crisp reflections, and the clarity grade is very slightly included evaluated at eye level, indicating minor natural features that do not detract from overall visual performance. This opal is a natural solid piece from Australia and is presented without treatments, which preserves original hydration and structural integrity as sourced.

Optical character is defined by medium intense color intensity and a multi color play that shows dominant blue and green flashes complemented by secondary turquoise and subtle violet and orange accents under varied illumination. The internal microstructure of silica spheres creates diffraction phenomena, and in this specimen the pattern reads as broad flash and linear banding across the cabochon surface, producing striking color ribbons when viewed at oblique angles. Translucency enhances depth, permitting light to penetrate and interact with internal color layers, which increases perceived saturation without the heavy body tone of darker opals. Color distribution is relatively even across the table with localized areas of higher saturation, and the medium intensity grading reflects a balance between vivid color play and the lighter body tone. These optical properties make the gem visually appealing in both natural daylight and neutral white LED lighting, with the strongest flashes appearing when the stone is tilted to catch the diffraction planes.

The cabochon cutting technique has been executed to emphasize the opal response, with a smooth domed profile and symmetrical oval outline that maintains consistent girdle thickness for secure mounting. The cutter selected a moderate dome height to maximize broad flash visibility while minimizing surface curvature that could reduce perceived color continuity. Edge symmetry and polish are important for optimal setting, and this piece exhibits an excellent polish, which reduces light scattering from the surface and enhances contrast between body tone and play of color. For jewelry applications I recommend a secure bezel setting or a low profile prong setting with protective bezel lip to reduce the risk of edge chipping, given the inherent microfracture sensitivity of hydrated silica. Avoid ultrasonic cleaning, high heat, and prolonged exposure to solvents that could alter internal water content, and clean gently with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. The thickness of the stone at 4.18 mm provides sufficient depth for secure setting and reasonable durability for everyday wear when properly mounted.

From a gemological and valuation perspective this specimen combines desirable factors associated with Australian White Opal, namely natural origin, no enhancements, attractive medium intensity play of color, and fine cutting and polish executed to display the best optical response. Clarity grading as very slightly included evaluated at eye level conveys that inclusions are minor and primarily internal, often accepted by knowledgeable buyers who prioritize natural formation features. The multi color play with dominant blues and greens increases versatility for design, as these hues pair well with both white and yellow metals, and the oval cabochon shape is efficient for standard mounting sizes and settings. At The Natural Gemstone Company we catalog and photograph each piece to show typical viewing angles and to document measurements and grading attributes, and we are available to provide additional high resolution images or to advise on custom mounting options that retain the stone orientation which maximizes color flash. If you require further technical information regarding optimal setting depths, recommended metal choices, or matching stones for paired designs, please contact The Natural Gemstone Company for personalized support.