4.93 Ct. Boulder Opal from Australia

This 4.93 carat Boulder Opal from Australia is a standout for collectors and designers who demand authenticity and visual impact, it measures 11.89 by 10.15 by 3.98 mm, it has a classic oval shape and a tablet cut that emphasizes broad flashes of color across the surface, the gem is opaque with an intense color intensity that generates bright green, red, and blue play of color against a rich dark ironstone matrix, the polish is excellent and the stone is unenhanced, this combination of natural, unaltered color and fine finishing makes it different from assembled or treated opals on the market, the tablet cut provides a low profile with a flat or slightly domed face that sits beautifully in bezel work and inlay designs, and the unique vein like patterns typical of Boulder Opal create one of a kind visual maps that change with light and angle, The Natural Gemstone Company presents this piece as a genuine Australian Boulder Opal that requires no enhancement, ensuring the buyer receives an honest, stable stone that will maintain its appearance and value over time.

Compared to black opal, which is often prized for its deep, uniform dark ground, this Boulder Opal offers a similar dramatic contrast but with a rugged, natural texture provided by the ironstone host, that texture creates striking, organic patterns that cannot be replicated in doublets, triplets, or synthetic opals, in comparison with white and crystal opals, which tend to display color against lighter or more transparent backgrounds, the Boulder Opal achieves more intense and easily visible flashes in everyday lighting conditions, this makes it a more practical choice for wearable pieces where strong play of color is desired without special lighting, when compared to treated or assembled stones, which may be dyed, glued, or coated and which often command lower resale value, this unenhanced Boulder Opal retains intrinsic value, and because it is cut from a solid piece of host rock rather than glued onto a backing, it offers superior durability and a natural beauty that collectors and high end designers consistently prefer.

From a design and care perspective, the tablet cut and robust ironstone backing make this oval opal ideal for rings, pendants, and artisan inlay work where the stone needs to withstand daily wear, for setting suggestions, a secure bezel with a slightly raised profile will protect the stone edges and highlight the surface color, if you prefer a more modern look a low set bezel in yellow gold will warm the red and green fire, while white gold or platinum will heighten the cooler green and blue flashes, the stone also works well as a focal cabochon in custom jewelry that showcases the irregular color veins, care is straightforward, avoid ultrasonic cleaning and harsh chemicals, clean with a soft cloth and warm water, avoid extreme heat or sudden temperature shock, and store separately to protect the polish, at The Natural Gemstone Company we include detailed imagery and honest descriptions so you know exactly what you are buying, we can provide additional views on request and offer guidance on setting and sizing to ensure the opal fits your design, this Boulder Opal is an exceptional choice for someone seeking a durable, vibrant, and naturally unique opal that stands apart from treated and synthetic alternatives.