2.82 Ct. Cabochon Jelly Opal from Ethiopia

This lot from The Natural Gemstone Company is a finely executed, translucent 2.82 carat oval jelly opal, precisely measured at 12.03 x 9.91 x 5.27 mm, presented in a classical cabochon profile. The gem exhibits multi color play of light with a dominant vivid green response and complementary warm tones visible through the body, consistent with the jelly opal type. Clarity is graded eye clean when observed at normal viewing distance, and the piece shows no internal fractures or inclusions that interfere with the optical performance. The color intensity has been assessed as intense, and the lapidary work concludes with an excellent polish. No enhancement has been applied, and provenance is documented as Ethiopia, which is relevant to the material character and market valuation.

From a lapidary perspective the cabochon cut has been executed to optimize optical return for a translucent precious opal. The dome profile is moderate to high relative to the overall depth, providing an even curvature that allows internal color patches to orient and broaden as the viewing angle changes. Maintaining even thickness across the table area reduces the risk of light leakage and preserves the integrity of the diffraction pattern produced by the ordered silica spheres. Symmetry across the oval outline is consistent with precision cutting standards, and the polished surface is free of lapping marks, indicating meticulous final finishing. The cutter oriented the stone to favor broad flash phenomena in the crown area, an approach that maximizes visual impact when the gem is set face up in jewelry.

Color characterization for this specimen highlights the interplay between a semi transparent jelly body and the vivid play of color. The scintillation mechanism is the classic diffraction of light by regularly spaced silica spheres within the opal matrix, and the apparent dominance of green suggests a silica sphere size distribution that favors shorter wavelength diffraction. Secondary warm flashes provide depth and contrast against the jelly body, enhancing perceived intensity when viewed under full spectrum light. The translucency allows internal color to be visible from multiple angles, creating a layered effect where body tone and play of color interact. In gem grading terms the stone would be described as having intense color saturation, high clarity at loupe and eye level, and a striking color pattern that reads well for both collector display and wearable applications.

The Ethiopian origin contributes materially to the gemological profile and market value of this opal. Ethiopian opals are typically formed in volcanic tuff and often show a microstructure and porosity that produce the characteristic jelly appearance and dynamic color behavior. This geological origin is associated with hydrophane tendencies in many specimens, meaning the material can absorb and desorb water which may temporarily alter apparent body tone and play of color. The present piece is untreated and stable as supplied, and the natural provenance is a desirable attribute for collectors who track locality and formation environment. In the contemporary market Ethiopian precious opals command attention for their vivid colors and relative scarcity in high quality, untreated examples. The absence of enhancements further elevates this stone within its origin category, because many consumer buyers and connoisseurs prefer natural surface and internal conditions preserved by skilled, non invasive cutting.

For practical use and appraisal the combination of dimensions, weight, cut, and optical behavior makes this opal suitable for a range of settings, with recommendations driven by the material properties. A protective bezel or low profile crown setting will secure the cabochon and reduce exposure to abrasion and impact, preserving the excellent polish and ensuring the dome remains undisturbed. Ultrasonic cleaning and steam treatments should be avoided, and exposure to harsh chemicals or sustained immersion in liquids that carry cleaning agents is not recommended. Cleaning with a soft cloth and a gentle detergent solution followed by thorough drying will maintain appearance and guard against changes for hydrophane specimens. This 2.82 carat eye clean Ethiopian jelly opal, graded and presented by The Natural Gemstone Company, is an exceptional candidate for a bespoke ring or pendant, and it delivers the kind of optical dynamism and documented origin that informed buyers and designers prioritize when commissioning high quality, natural opal jewelry.