2.52 Ct. Cabochon White Opal from Brazil

This White Opal is a semi translucent oval cabochon weighing 2.52 carats, with precise dimensions of 12.38 by 8.36 by 4.96 millimeters. The cut is a classic domed cabochon, with a proportional dome height that preserves depth while maximizing surface area for play of color. Clarity is graded as very slightly included when evaluated at eye level, indicating minimal visual interruptions that do not compromise overall appearance. Color intensity is assessed as medium, allowing the body tone to act as a neutral canvas for the internal color interplay, and the polish has been finished to an excellent standard to ensure smooth light transmission across the dome. No treatments or enhancements have been applied, and the material is sourced from Brazil, reflecting a genetic population of silica based opal characteristic of that region.

Optical behavior in this gem arises from the internal microstructure of ordered silica spheres, which produce discrete diffraction of light into discrete spectral colors. Observed under direct and diffuse illumination, the stone exhibits a mixture of pinfire and small broad flash phenomena, with green and red flashes appearing most prominently against the soft white body. The semi translucent body allows light to penetrate and interact with multiple internal layers, producing depth in the color play, while the cabochon profile controls the angle dependent display, favoring broad flashes when worn in typical jewelry settings. The medium color intensity balances contrast and saturation, giving a refined, wearable look that remains visibly lively without overwhelming the piece.

The unmistakable signature of this opal is defined by a constellation of internal inclusions and growth related features that are both diagnostic and aesthetically compelling. Fine potch veils are present as translucent, gently layered zones that modulate the background brightness, creating a soft opalescent ground that makes flashes appear to hover beneath the surface. Intermittent micro cavities filled with residual silica contribute to lensing effects that concentrate color in localized areas, producing brighter pinpoints of fire. Scattered microgranular opaline masses and subtle healed micro fractures align with growth planes, forming delicate banding that is visible as wispy striations under oblique light. These inclusions are not defects in the conventional sense, they are part of the stone s formation history, and they are responsible for the gem s singular personality, because they break up uniformity and create directional iridescence that changes character with movement.

From a lapidary and jewelry design perspective, the cabochon form and the placement of inclusions have been considered to optimize visual impact and durability. The dome height of 4.96 millimeters relative to the 12.38 by 8.36 millimeter outline provides structural integrity against knocks, while preserving the optical thickness necessary for the internal silica domains to interact effectively with incident light. The excellent polish minimizes surface scattering, allowing the internal inclusions and play of color to register with clarity at typical viewing distances. Given the very slightly included clarity grade, set designers may choose a bezel setting to protect the girdle and edge of the cabochon, while still permitting ample light access to the top face. This opal s semi translucent nature and medium color intensity make it versatile for both daytime and evening wear, and suitable for rings, pendants, and artisan brooches where the unique internal signature can be appreciated up close.

The Natural Gemstone Company offers this White Opal as an authenticated natural material, unenhanced and with provenance from Brazil. In our technical appraisal we note the natural potch veiling, micro cavity lensing, and growth aligned microgranular textures as signature inclusion features that distinguish this specimen from both synthetic and treated counterparts. For care, avoid prolonged exposure to high heat and sudden thermal shock, store separately to prevent abrasion against harder gems, and clean with warm water and a soft brush without ultrasonic or steam methods. This opal will reward an informed owner, because its internal architecture and the lapidary choices made to preserve it create a dynamic, living visual that evolves with viewing angle and light source, a technical and aesthetic combination that exemplifies the kinds of stones we curate at The Natural Gemstone Company.