New 610 gram 5 1/4 inch Natural Black Opal Flame 1.35 lb

Discover the beauty of nature with this stunning black and cream natural Opal flame. This hand-shaped specimen measures approximately 5.25 x 3.5 x 2.5 inches and weighs approximately 610 grams.

While the renowned "Black Opal" specifically refers to precious opal displaying play-of-color against a dark background, opal material can also form with a naturally black or very dark body tone without exhibiting this spectral color flash. This variety is technically known as Common Opal or, particularly when found alongside precious opal, as Potch. Characterized by its opaque (or occasionally slightly translucent) black, dark grey, deep blue, or dark brown body color, its visual appeal stems from its deep, uniform hue and smooth texture rather than iridescence. Composed of hydrated amorphous silica, it shares the typical opal Mohs hardness of 5.5 to 6.5, requiring some care in handling. Black common opal is often fashioned into cabochons, beads, used as inlay material, or carved into decorative objects, valued for its solid, dark appearance, which can serve as a striking contrast or stand alone as a sleek, dark gem.