Origin: Welo, Ethiopia
Weight: 27.88 ct
Cut: Polished dome cabochon
Play of Color: Vivid red, green, aqua, and fire-orange
Pattern: Honeycomb
Treatment: None (Natural Solid Opal)
Clarity: High translucency, hydrophane behavior may occur
Finish: Expertly polished
A striking 27.88 carat Ethiopian Welo opal featuring one of nature’s most coveted optical displays: the honeycomb pattern. This gem is a radiant canvas of electric color—where cherry reds ignite alongside cool blues and neon greens, suspended in a milky-translucent body like liquid fire beneath glass.
Its dome is well-shaped with clean curvature, inviting light to move across the surface and into the depths. A rare find of this size and pattern—ideal for collectors and designers seeking the extraordinary.
Scientific Note:
This is a precious hydrophane opal formed in volcanic rock, prized for its ability to absorb water and temporarily shift in transparency or tone. The honeycomb effect is caused by a uniform arrangement of silica spheres that diffract light into a prismatic spectrum—similar to play-of-color in Australian opals, but often more internally layered and luminous. Ethiopian opals typically contain silica spheres in the 150–300 nm range, producing vibrant, full-spectrum flashes visible from multiple angles.
Metaphysical Insight:
Ethiopian opals are symbols of spiritual awakening and self-expression. The honeycomb variety is believed to activate deep cellular memory, encouraging emotional clarity, alignment, and personal transformation.
