8.05 Ct. Boulder Opal from Australia

One exquisite example from our current collection at The Natural Gemstone Company is a single opaque pear shape Boulder Opal weighing 8.05 carats, with measurements 21.90 by 9.70 by 4.50 mm, cut in a tablet style to emphasize surface color, and finished with an excellent polish. This stone displays multi color play with intense color intensity across the table, showing flashes that range from electric blues and vivid greens to warm reds and purples depending on viewing angle and light source. As a Boulder Opal, the gem retains natural ironstone matrix characteristics that give it a grounded, organic appearance and added structural support, while allowing the opal layer to present an uncommonly saturated play of color. The item is natural with no enhancement applied, and its Australian origin places it within the world renowned opal producing regions, which is an important provenance consideration for collectors and connoisseurs who prioritize locality in valuation.

From a grading perspective this piece scores highly on several technical attributes that educated buyers value, beginning with color and brilliance, which are primary determinants of opal worth. The tablet cut is shallow and flat, intentionally executed to maximize the visible face of color on a thin seam of opal over ironstone, and the excellent polish ensures that light interacts cleanly with the surface, enhancing apparent brightness. Clarity in opals is assessed differently than in faceted gems, because pattern, inclusions, and host rock contribute to character rather than detract, and in this specimen the ironstone matrix provides attractive contrast that highlights the color patches without distracting flaws. The pattern appears to be a compact mosaic of color patches which, combined with the intense hue and high brilliance, produces a striking visual impact consistent with high quality Boulder Opal material. The dimensions and 4.50 mm thickness make it especially well suited to bespoke pendants or long, elegant settings where the tablet profile can sit flush against metal, and the natural backing of ironstone enhances durability compared with free standing opal material.

For the educated buyer assessing value, this Australian Boulder Opal offers several compelling factors that justify investment and premium placement in a fine collection. The combination of substantial weight at 8.05 carats, pronounced multi color play with intense saturation, natural unenhanced state, and the desirable tablet cut and polish together indicate a stone that performs both aesthetically and technically. Boulder Opals from Australia are prized for their distinctive interplay between opal and host rock, offering a look that is simultaneously vibrant and intimate, attributes that appeal to collectors seeking individuality and geological authenticity. Practical considerations also favor this piece, since the ironstone backing contributes to relative toughness and reduces the risk of crazing or cracking that can affect thin non backed opals, and recommended settings such as bezel mounts or protective pendant frames will further secure the stone for wearer confidence. At The Natural Gemstone Company we can provide additional high resolution images, lighting views, and provenance notes upon request to assist appraisal and design planning, and we are available to discuss mounting options and certification pathways to ensure this Boulder Opal is integrated into your collection or creation with complete transparency and satisfaction.