• Location: Welo, Ethiopia
• Weight: 0.3g = 1.8ct
• Dimensions: 11 x 9 x 3 mm
• DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Cabochons cut from Ethiopian opals are particularly prized in the jewelry industry because this type of cut enhances the internal opalescent effects of the stone and contributes to greater overall stability. A cabochon cut has a domed and rounded top without facets, while the bottom is usually flat or slightly concave. This shape allows light to diffuse across the gently curved surface from multiple angles, effectively enhancing the opal's iridescent play of color and distributing it evenly. At the same time, the smooth, rounded edges protect the stone from mechanical damage, which is particularly important for opals due to their lower hardness. For hydrophane opals, this cut also offers a practical advantage—it helps reduce internal stresses in the stone, lowering the risk of fractures when the stone absorbs water. Ethiopian cabochons exhibit a wide range of colors—from light, milky white, through yellow and orange tones, to intense red and green flashes. Many stones also show rare blue or purple plays of color. Thanks to the cabochon shape, these colors flow smoothly over the domed surface.