4.61 Ct. Cabochon Fire Opal from Mexico

This transparent Mexican Fire Opal from The Natural Gemstone Company is a precisely worked oval cabochon weighing 4.61 carats, with exact dimensions of 14.56 by 10.75 by 5.35 millimeters, and a classic domed cabochon profile that maximizes internal color saturation and light return. The cutting style is a high dome cabochon with a uniformly convex crown and a flat to gently polished base, executed to preserve transparency and to produce an even distribution of color across the full face of the stone. The body color grade is intense orange, described in collector terms as saturated vivid orange without secondary brownish modifiers, and the material presents excellent clarity for a fire opal, with negligible internal disruption under standard loupe inspection and no evidence of filler or resin, consistent with the stated enhancement status of none. Optical and physical characteristics are typical of opal as a hydrated amorphous silica, with refractive index approximately 1.44 to 1.46 and specific gravity in the range expected for fire opal, and these parameters, together with the gemstone density and its light transmittance, confirm a transparent to semi transparent habit that allows strong internal light transmission rather than diffuse scattering. The polish quality is described as excellent, indicating lap work with fine abrasives and a final high sheen that enhances brilliance and accentuates the stone body color, while the symmetry of the oval outlines and the proportional dome height of 5.35 millimeters provide ideal optical depth for use in precision jewellery settings.

In terms of wearability and durability the technical profile supports daily use provided appropriate design and handling considerations are observed, because opal has a Mohs hardness approximately 5.5 to 6.5 which places it below the thresholds of traditional facet gemstones and above softer organics, therefore it is more susceptible to abrasion and sharp impact than corundum or diamond. The cabochon thickness and dome geometry of this particular piece create a robust volume that reduces the risk of localized chipping, and the absence of enhancements means there is no softening agent present that would compromise mechanical strength, however opal remains sensitive to sudden thermal shock and to prolonged chemical exposure, and it can be vulnerable to dehydration related crazing in extreme environments. For daily rings we recommend a full bezel seat with a low but continuous bezel wall to protect the girdle and periphery, or a recessed bezel with a small guard ledge that prevents direct lateral blows to the dome. Pendant, earring and brooch applications are naturally lower risk, and when used in bracelets the design should minimize exposure to knocks and abrasion. In all mounts the base of the cabochon should be fully supported by a fitted seat to avoid point loads, and prongs if used should be substantial and positioned to shield the most exposed sections of the dome without obscuring the visual face.

Care protocols for long term preservation are straightforward and tailored to the material properties of fire opal, and they are important to maintain appearance and structural integrity over years of wear. Clean with warm water and a mild detergent applied with a soft brush or cloth, then rinse and dry with a soft lint free cloth, avoiding ultrasonic and steam cleaners, and avoiding chemical solvents and prolonged immersion in alcohol or acids which can affect internal water balance in some opals. Store separately in a padded compartment or a soft pouch to prevent abrasion from harder gemstones, and avoid leaving the stone in environments of extreme heat or prolonged direct sunlight which can hasten dehydration and lead to micro cracking in susceptible material. Periodic inspection of the mounting is advised, and annual checks by a qualified jeweller familiar with gem body stones will ensure settings remain secure and that there is no developing wear at contact points. At The Natural Gemstone Company we document origin, treatment status and exact dimensions for each stone, and we are available to advise on bespoke mounting options that maximize both the aesthetic impact and the protective security of this Mexican Fire Opal for confident everyday wear.