Wello Opal Cabochons - Oval

These two Wello Opals are truly world-class specimens, displaying the spectacular "play-of-color" that has made Ethiopian opals famous. We have two distinct sizes: Small (11mm by 8.5mm, 7mm high) and Large (13.2mm by 9.4mm, 5.7mm high).

The larger stone features a high, dramatic 7mm dome that acts like a lens, intensifying the internal flashes of neon green, electric blue, and fiery red. The smaller offers a broader surface area with a sleeker 5.7mm profile, allowing the rolling "fire" of the opal to stretch across a wider canvas. Both stones possess a beautiful translucency that makes the colors appear to float in a three-dimensional space.

With their substantial sizes and vibrant personalities, these opals are perfect for high-end statement rings or "hero" pendants that deserve to be the center of attention.

Key Properties & Care

Wello Opals are hydrophane opals, meaning they have a unique ability to absorb water. This gives them incredible brightness, but it also means they require very specific "best practice" care to keep them stunning:

• Mohs Hardness: Opal has a hardness of 5.5 to 6.5. While harder than Apatite, it is still relatively soft and can be scratched by quartz dust or harder gemstones.

• Cleaning: Use only a soft, dry microfiber cloth to buff the surface. Never soak these opals in water and never use soap, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam cleaners.

• The Hydrophane Factor: Because Wello opals are porous, if they absorb water, oils, or chemicals (like perfume or lotion), they can temporarily lose their "fire" and turn translucent or yellow. While they usually recover once dried out, repeated exposure to chemicals can permanently damage the stone's color.

• Maintenance:

  • "Last On, First Off": Always put your opal jewelry on after applying hairspray and perfume, and take it off before washing your hands or showering.

  • Avoid Extreme Heat: High heat or very dry environments can cause opals to "craze" (develop tiny surface cracks).

  • Impact Sensitivity: Opals are brittle. A sharp knock against a hard surface can chip or crack the stone, so a protective bezel setting is often the best choice for rings.

• Storage: Store your Wello opals in a cool, dark place in a separate soft pouch. Keep them away from Sapphires (9) and CZs (8.5), as those stones will easily scratch the opal's surface.

All photos are for indication only. We cannot guarantee that your screen is displaying the actual colour or refraction of the gemstone.