3.40 Ct. Cabochon Jelly Opal from Australia

There is a special place in the history of gemstones reserved for opal, a stone that has inspired poets, monarchs, and artisans for centuries, and this 3.40 carat orange Jelly Opal from Australia is a modern continuation of that legacy. From the Roman admiration for opals as symbols of wonder, to the medieval belief that they conferred protection and sight, opal has always stood as a bridge between the ancient world and contemporary design, valued by those who seek heirloom quality and quiet distinction. This particular gem, offered by The Natural Gemstone Company, is an oval measuring 13.01 by 9.82 by 4.53 millimeters, expertly fashioned as a cabochon to reveal its interior glow, and it presents a translucent, medium light orange tone that calls to mind warm honey and soft sunsets. Graded as eye clean when viewed at eye level, unenhanced, and finished with an excellent polish, the stone retains a pure, natural character that collectors and designers prize, and the Jelly Opal type gives it a gentle, jelly like translucence that reads as both modern and timeless.

Practical considerations for a gem with such historical resonance are essential, and the question of durability is one that every owner should consider, especially for an intimate piece meant to be worn and admired. On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, opal typically falls between 5.5 and 6.5, which places this Jelly Opal well below hard stones like quartz at 7, corundum which includes sapphire and ruby at 9, and far below diamond at 10. This means that while the opal is perfectly suited for daily appreciation in jewelry, it is more vulnerable to abrasion and sharp impacts than harder gems, and care in its setting and handling will preserve its polished surface and translucent depth. For this reason many jewellers and collectors prefer bezel settings, protective low profile mounts, or pendants and earrings for opals, rather than exposed, prong heavy rings that might catch or bump during wear, and for a 3.40 carat oval cabochon the gentle curve and warm color will read beautifully in a classic bezel or halo that honors its legacy while providing practical protection.

Caring for this Australian Jelly Opal will ensure it becomes an enduring piece in any collection, a jewel that can be passed down and appreciated for generations, and The Natural Gemstone Company stands ready to advise on settings that respect both tradition and modern lifestyles. Because the stone is unenhanced and eye clean, its natural allure is best preserved by avoiding harsh chemical cleaners, chlorine, and extended exposure to strong heat, and ultrasonic or steam cleaning is not recommended for precious opal material. Instead, gentle cleaning with a soft cloth and mild soapy water, followed by careful drying, will maintain its polish and surface integrity, and storing the gem separately from harder stones will prevent surface scratches. For those who value the quiet poetry of a gemstone that carries ancient associations of beauty and inner light, this translucent orange Jelly Opal offers a rare combination of soft color, classic cabochon form, and responsible provenance from Australia, and our specialists at The Natural Gemstone Company are available to discuss bespoke settings, certification, and the ways this gem will best add to your collection or design as a signature piece.