4.68 Ct. Boulder Opal from Australia

This exquisite gemstone, a 4.68 carat blue opal, specializes in capturing the awe-inspiring beauty of nature in one stunning piece. Cut into a marquise shape with dimensions measuring 17.85 x 7.18 x 3.93 mm, the opal showcases an exceptional tablet cut. This precise cut enhances the stone's vivid color intensity while maintaining an excellent polish. As a black opal, it is part of one of the most sought-after categories in the world of colored gemstones, making it incredibly valuable and appealing to the discerning eye of an educated buyer.

Originating from Australia, which is renowned for producing the finest opals globally, this exquisite piece is a testament to the country’s impressive mining processes. Australian opals account for approximately 95% of the world's opal supply, contributing to their high esteem in jewelry markets. The specific region's geological formations have given rise to opals with rich color displays and a unique play of color, further influencing their perceived value. In particular, Australian black opals are celebrated for their vibrant hues and brilliant flashes of color, often resembling the night sky with various celestial patterns.

One of the pivotal factors contributing to this blue opal’s desirability is its durability, making it suitable for daily wear in jewelry creations. Opals score between 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. While they are softer than some other gemstones, their structure compensates for this with appropriate care and setting designs. The Natural Gemstone Company prides itself on offering materials that balance both beauty and practicality. The tablet cut design amplifies its strength and mitigates some of the vulnerabilities creased by its softness, allowing this opal to shine in rings, pendants, or earrings alike. When set by experienced hands and given proper care, this incredible gemstone can last for generations.

The clarity of this black opal is another feature worth noting. Contrary to many gemstones where absolute clarity is prized, the value of opals centers around their color and unique patterns. Such variations are natural hallmarks, delivering a visual feast and individuality that surpasses the demand for traditional clarity metrics. This blue opal's opaque nature allows for more dramatic displays of these patterns, making each viewing angle a unique exploration of its celestial hues. This originality, provided by its distinct play-of-color combined with its durability, ensures that owners of this gemstone possess not just a piece of luxury but also a slice of terrestrial elegance steeped in natural history.