• Location: Welo, Ethiopia
• Weight: 1.9g = 9.6ct
• Dimensions: 2.1 x 1.4 x 0.7 cm
• DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Cabochons cut from Ethiopian opals are particularly valued in the jewelry industry because this type of cut enhances the stone's internal opalescent effects and contributes to greater overall stability. A cabochon cut has a domed, 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 tensions in the stone, lowering the risk of fractures when the stone absorbs water. Ethiopian cabochons display a wide range of colors — from clear and milky white, through yellow and orange tones, to intense red and green flashes. Many stones also show rare blue or purple play-of-color. Thanks to the cabochon shape, these colors flow smoothly across the domed surface.