Andamooka matrix opal on sale cabochon - 50.4 carats - Australia

Here is a cabochon of Andamooka matrix opal from Australia.

The Andamooka region has many fine opals, and one type is matrix opal. The opal is in the cavities of a limestone host rock. This is on sale called matrix opal. The limestone is cooked in a sugar solution to turn the limestone black, which allows for the color to show up. The present specimen is a well prepared piece and the opal colors themselves are natural.

This cabochon features nice colors although it's dull in a few areas. The back also features more colors and has potential if you want to re-polish it.

The cabochon measures 57 x 20 x 5 millimeters and weighs 50.4 carats.