The skin changes from green to a creamy pale yellow or ivory color
The blossom end gives slightly when pressed gently
It has a sweet, fruity aroma at the blossom end
The rind looks smooth and waxy, not dull or overly green
The melon feels heavy for its size
The stem end is slightly soft and may have a slight indentation
It sounds low and dull when tapped lightly
It has a slight give but is not mushy
The surface is free of major green patches
The melon is fully mature and not rock-hard