7.04 Ct. Cabochon Semi-Black Opal from Australia

This piece is a translucent Semi-Black Opal, oval in outline, weighing 7.04 carats, with dimensions 16.01 x 11.01 x 6.32 mm, presented as a traditional cabochon cut. The cabochon exhibits a well controlled dome profile with an even height to length ratio that maximizes broadflash and pinfire play-of-color across the surface. Body tone falls within the semi-black range, providing a subdued dark background that enhances the vividness of the internal color palette. Color intensity in this specimen is classified as intense, with dominant green and blue spectral components and secondary flashes that shift with viewing angle, indicating strong light diffraction from orderly silica sphere stacking. The polish is excellent, producing crisp surface reflections and minimal surface aberrations, while symmetry and outline are precise, yielding consistent optical behavior when rotated. There is no enhancement, and the origin is Australian, a provenance that is consistent with the observed play-of-color quality and structural homogeneity. The Natural Gemstone Company confirms the gem has not undergone treatments such as smoke or sugar processes, dyeing, or resin impregnation.

From a lapidary and setting perspective this cabochon is technically optimized for designs that exploit its translucency and intense color play. The shallow to medium dome facilitates even light penetration and return, so east west or north south orientation can be selected to favor specific color flash directions in finished jewelry. Edge rounding and a high quality girdle polish reduce stress concentration points during setting, making bezel mounting or low profile prong settings advisable to protect against mechanical shock. For long term stability avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam, and limit exposure to intense, prolonged heat or rapid temperature changes. Clean with a soft cloth and mild soapy water, drying gently to preserve surface polish. Given the measured dimensions and optical performance, this Semi-Black Opal is well suited to ring or pendant applications where the cabochon can be secured and showcased, and it represents a technically refined example of Australian opal craftsmanship available through The Natural Gemstone Company.