6.07 Ct. Boulder Opal from Australia

This specimen is a beautiful translucent Boulder Opal weighing 6.07 carats, presented in a freeform shape with dimensions of 13.21 by 11.47 by 5.77 mm, sourced from Australia. The gem shows an intense color intensity with vivid play of color across the visible spectrum, including flashes of red, orange, green and blue, and it is finished with an excellent polish that enhances surface brilliance and light return. The clarity is graded as eye clean, evaluated at eye level, which indicates no visible inclusions or structural interruptions that would distract from the opal s internal fire, and the piece has received no enhancement, confirming it is a natural, untreated material. The cut is not applicable in the traditional faceted sense, because the cutter preserved the natural contours and color seams of the rough to maximize the play of color and carat retention, a deliberate and valued approach when working with high quality opal material.

For educated buyers, understanding why this Boulder Opal is valuable requires attention to several objective criteria, beginning with origin and material context. Australian Boulder Opal is prized because the opal forms within ironstone veins, which often remain attached as a natural backing that stabilizes the precious opal layer. This specimen s translucency combined with strong play of color indicates a high quality opal cortex, while the retained natural form and ironstone footing, visible along the lower edge, contribute mechanical support and a distinctive aesthetic contrast. Clarity grading at eye level is a key metric in opal assessment, because many opals exhibit internal potch or structural fractures when viewed under magnification that do not affect appearance, whereas an eye clean grade confirms exceptional visual purity to the unaided eye. Color intensity and pattern distribution are primary drivers of market value in opal, and the broad, intense flashes present here command premium interest from collectors and designers who prioritize multi color impact and even color distribution across the surface.

When evaluating suitability for jewelry and long term enjoyment, several practical factors make this Boulder Opal especially desirable. The presence of ironstone backing inherent to Boulder Opal increases stability relative to free floating crystal opals, allowing settings that can accommodate daily wear with appropriate protection, while the freeform shape gives creative freedom for bespoke settings such as custom bezels, inlay work, or a protective halo. Opal hardness typically ranges around Mohs 5.5 to 6.5, which means care in setting and wear is prudent, and the excellent polish on this piece indicates expert lapidary work that minimizes micro abrasive zones that could weaken the surface. Because this gem is unenhanced, its color and body tone are natural, and this provenance and treatment transparency are critical to discerning buyers who value authenticity and traceability, attributes reinforced by the Australian origin and the Boulder Opal classification.

At The Natural Gemstone Company we present this opal with detailed imagery and grading notes to support confident purchase decisions, and we can assist with independent gem testing or bespoke setting recommendations for your design goals. For care we advise avoiding sudden temperature changes, prolonged exposure to intense heat or dry conditions, and harsh chemicals, and cleaning should be performed with a soft cloth and mild soap and water, avoiding ultrasonic and steam cleaning. For collectors and designers seeking a natural, intensely colored Australian Boulder Opal with eye clean clarity, a substantial carat weight, and a thoughtful freeform cut and polish that preserves maximum color, this 6.07 carat specimen represents a rare combination of aesthetics and structural integrity, and it is an excellent addition to a curated gemstone collection or a centerpiece for a custom jewelry commission.