Pair of Andean pink opal cabochons (Peru), available in 10mm round and 12x8mm oval formats. Uniform opaque pastel pink color, ideal for symmetrically balanced earrings. Material sourced from a wholesale gem market.
Item details
| Mineral |
Pink common opal (SiO?·nH?O) - Andean variety, Peru |
| Dimensions |
Round: 10x10x4 mm / Oval: 12x8x4 mm or 12x8x5 mm (see variant) |
| Shape and back |
Freeform round or oval, flat back |
| Finish |
Mirror polish |
| Hardness |
5.5-6 Mohs - we recommend closed bezel setting; avoid use in daily wear rings |
| Origin |
Peru (Andes) |
| Treatment |
Untreated |
| Item type |
Available in 6 variants in pairs - each pair is a unique set |
About this specific piece
Andean pink opal is distinguished from fire opal or black opal by its opaque nature and soft color: a pastel pink reminiscent of moonstone but without adularescence. The uniform opacity makes the two cabochons in the pair visually consistent, which is crucial for earrings where the eye directly compares both pieces.
Each pair has been selected for color and size balance. The slight individual variation of the natural mineral distinguishes the jewelry from pieces produced with identical synthetic stones.
How Andean pink opal is formed
Andean opal is formed in volcano-sedimentary deposits in the Peruvian Andes. Unlike Australian fire opal - which crystallizes in igneous rock fissures - Peruvian opal is deposited in sedimentary layers with a high concentration of siliceous water. The pink color is due to organic quinones trapped during formation, not optical diffraction as in noble opal. This is why it is opaque and its color is stable in light.
What setting it works for
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Closed bezel earrings (925 silver) - the calibrated pair is the natural application; the bezel enhances the contrast with the pastel pink.
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Solitaire pendant - one piece of the pair can be set in a minimalist pendant.
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Wire wrap - viable technique given the low Mohs hardness; the wire protects the perimeter.
Andean opal in lapidary tradition
Pliny the Elder described opal as the gem containing all colors. The pink Andean opal, from the Peruvian highlands, is associated in crystal tradition with emotional sensitivity and creativity. Symbolic properties shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice.
How to recognize genuine Andean pink opal
Authentic opal has a waxy texture under magnification and a completely opaque color without adularescence. Imitation glass has a vitreous luster and different weight. Moonstone shows a blue flash when turned. Synthetic resins scratch easily.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it have fire or adularescence?
No. Andean pink opal is common opal, not noble. Its color is opaque and stable, without play-of-color or adularescence. This uniformity makes it ideal for symmetrical earrings.
Are the two cabochons in the pair identical?
They have been selected for visual balance, but each piece is a natural mineral with inherent variations. Tone and size within ±0.5 mm are normal.
Is it suitable for rings?
Not recommended for daily wear rings (Mohs 5.5-6). For pendants and closed bezel earrings, it is durable if contact with hard surfaces is avoided.
Can opal dehydrate?
Peruvian common opal is more stable than Australian noble opal. Avoid prolonged exposure to extreme dry heat.
Are the dimensions exact?
Tolerance ±0.5 mm. Freeform without industrial calibration; there may be slight variation between pieces.
How to care for it?
Soft damp cloth; no ultrasonic or steam cleaners. Avoid perfumes and chemicals. More at jewelry care.
See also: cabochons collection.
