Opal, Spinel & Diamond Pendant
18K yellow gold pendant accented with black rhodium featuring a 1.84 oval opal accented by a 0.23 carat red spinel, 0.52 carat total weight of round red spinels, 1.13 carat total weight of rose-cut diamonds, and 0.23 carat total weight of round diamonds.
P1525-PC1740-OPOV
Design Details
Opal, Spinel & Diamond Pendant
18K Yellow Gold w/ Black Rhodium
1 Black Opal Oval 1.84 ct. (14.10x10.17x1.83mm) - Natural
1 Red Spinel Trillion 0.23 ct. - Natural
26 Red Spinel Rd 0.52 ctw. (1.50mm) - Natural
20 Diamond Rose Cut 1.13 ctw. (G/VS+)
17 Diamond Rd 0.23 ctw. (E-F/VS+)
On 18" 18K Yellow Gold Cable Chain w/ 16" Jump Ring (1.6mm)
Unique Design Traits
Opal displayed a mesmerizing play of color pattern of reds, blues and greens which is mimicked in the halo with spinels set where the red hues of the opal are visible.
A spinel halo, heightened with black rhodium, intensifies the mysterious appeal of the center opal.
Bright 18K yellow gold set with rose-cut diamonds adds a bold contrast to the center stone.
Gemstone Details
Opal
The highly prized Australian opal is one of nature’s true works of art. Recognized as the premiere source, the Lightning Ridge area of New South Wales produces a very finite supply of this phenomenal stone and no two opals are exactly alike. Each masterpiece is a complex palette of colors in blue, green, orange yellow and/or red. As you move the opal around in the light, flashes of color are revealed in the depths of the gem.
Black opals are the most valuable variety of opal and is distinguished by its black or dark ‘body tone’ which allows for the opal’s brilliant and vivid play of color. Of all black opals, those with red tones and patterns in the play of color will command the highest premium. Not all opals display play of color, and they are referred to as common opal. Opal is formed by silica and water over thousands of years. Spheres of silica stack in a regular order, and this internal structure diffracts light so play-of-color can be seen.
Opal is the birthstone for the month of October and the 14th anniversary gift.
Spinel
Centuries ago, in Sanskrit writings, spinel was called the daughter of ruby, adored, yet somehow different. The Crown Jewels of Great Britain are graced with spinels and have resided in the regalia of kingdoms throughout history.Found in Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka and East Africa, spinel comes in a variety of colors including oranges, pinks, blues, lavenders, mauves and vivid reds. While common in sizes up to two carats, larger gemstones can also be acquired.
Spinel is thought to protect the owner from harm, to reconcile differences, and to soothe away sadness. However, the strongest reasons for buying a spinel are its rich, brilliant array of colors and its surprising affordability.
One of the most under-appreciated gemstones, spinel is coveted by collectors and gemologists for its range of hues and spectacular optical properties. Spinel was recently added as an official birthstone for August, raising its exposure to new heights. Recognized and prized for its hardness, brilliance, and unlike many other gem types, spinel is rarely treated or enhanced in any way. Many believe the name spinel comes from the Greek word for ’spark’. This name suits spinel well since it is a singularly refractive stone and is formed with cubic crystals similar to diamond, which gives this gemstone remarkable brilliance and fire.
Spinel is the birthstone for August and a gift for the 22nd wedding anniversary.