Opal and tourmaline are two magnificent birthstones that are used to mark the birthdays of those born in October. Both birthstones for October feature stunning hue and countless color combinations. Discover the ideal present for folks born in the tenth month by learning more about these two birthstones for October.
In This Article...
What three stones are associated with October?
Opal is a distinctive and well-liked gemstone that, among other things, lends itself wonderfully to jewelry. Ever notice the way an opal’s many colors shine? Continue reading to learn five interesting facts about the popular opal, the birthstone for October!
- Many people think that rain becoming caught inside of a rock is how opal forms. Crystalline silica in the rock is carried downward by the rain. The silicon slowly dries out after that.
- NASA made a really intriguing finding in the year 2008. Opal deposits have been discovered on Mars!
- Australia provides over 95% of the valuable birthstones for October in the globe. Since 1875, opal has been mined in Australia!
- Regarding the opal gem stone’s exceptional abilities, both Ancient Greeks and Romans held distinct views. Many individuals in Ancient Greece believed that opal might make you psychic! The common gemstone was associated with optimism and love in Ancient Rome.
- The abundance of silica spheres of various sizes is what gives opal gemstones their wide range of colors. The lovely October birthstone’s stunning array of colors is produced by light refraction caused by the spheres.
Is October Birthstone Opal or Tourmaline?
Opal and pink tourmaline are two magnificent birthstones that honor those who were born in October. Both opal and tourmaline, the birthstones for October, typically emit a range of hues. Jewelry with October birthstones stands out thanks to the variety of colors. Any piece can be altered to fit your personality and style. These distinctive gemstones offer a wide range of jewelry possibilities, from pendants to earrings.
Is October Birthstone Opal or Pink?
Opal and pink tourmaline are the birthstones for October. The main birthstone, tourmaline, is one of the few stones that can be found in practically every color, making it a rare gem. Some pink tourmalines are as clear as diamonds in clarity! Opals, on the other hand, are unique in their own right. Opal patterns have their own descriptive terminology since they are so distinctive. Opals are the most distinctively individual gems. The most fragile gemstones worn frequently are opals, which need specific maintenance.
Why Does October have two Birthstones?
The National Association of Jewelers decided to compile a list of acceptable birthstones for each month in 1952 in an effort to standardize the birthstones. That last has since been modified over time to match adjustments in fashion trends and stone supply. In the instance of October, there were concerns raised regarding the durability of the opal and it was thought by many to be excessively feminine in look. To add tourmaline to the mix, the association made this decision. More recently, it was determined that opal and pink tourmaline would be the birthstones for October.
What is the October Birthstone Meaning?
The opal, the traditional birthstone for October, is thought to have originated in India (where the first opals were imported to the West), where it was known as upala, or a “precious stone,” in Sanskrit. This was known as opalus in ancient Rome. The majority of opals are prized for their rainbow-hued color shifting, or “play of color.”
The more recent birthstone for October is tourmaline. Due to the frequent presence of several hues in a single crystal, the term is derived from the Sinhalese word toramalli, which means “stone with mixed colors.” Few gems can rival the stunning variety of colors found in tourmaline. Perhaps for this reason, ancient mystics thought that the birthstone for October could stimulate creative expression. There is a color scheme for each mood. The pink and red rubellites, the emerald green “chrome tourmalines, and the neon green and blue-to-violet “paraba tourmalines are among the most well-liked varieties.
What Color is the October Birthstone?
The traditional birthstones for October are opal and tourmaline. Some of the most exquisite and unusual gemstones include opal and tourmaline.
No other gem compares to the opal’s dynamic kaleidoscope of kaleidoscopic colors. The brilliance of fine opal is difficult to describe in words and elusive. It has been compared to volcanoes, galaxies, jellyfish, pyrotechnics, and jellyfish.
The tourmaline, which is generally depicted as pink, actually comes in a variety of colors, including pink (which is the approved color to represent October’s birthstone), blue, luxurious reds, and greens, which are used to embellish the showrooms of luxury jewelers.
What Are Typical October Birthstone Rings?
Shop rings with the birthstone of October at Joseph’s Jewelry. To celebrate this month of birthdays, we have some amazing rings to offer. Here are a few examples:
- Teardrop Pink Created Zircon and Diamond 14K White Gold Ring
- Pink created zircon stackable ring made of 14K white gold.
- Ladies’ Pink Created Zircon and Diamond Ring in 925 Sterling Silver
What Are Typical October Birthstone Necklaces?
Visit Joseph’s Jewelry to view our lovely October birthstone necklaces. Check out our selection of October birthstone necklaces to get exactly what you’re searching for;
- Pink Created Zircon Pendant Necklace in 14K White Gold with Diamond Accents
- Opal Cross Pendant in 14k Yellow Gold
- Pink Created Zircon and Diamond Halo Drop Necklace in 14K White Gold
What was October’s traditional birthstone originally?
Opal or tourmaline, depending on your source, is the birthstone for October. The most popular birthstone for October is opal. They are incredibly diverse rocks, changing in appearance according to the process of formation. Some jewelry uses precious opals, noted for their eye-catching iridescent colors. However, even the less spectacular common opals have a subtle beauty that makes specimen collections popular.
Opals are not considered minerals in the traditional sense, unlike the majority of other gemstones. They have an intricate lattice structure made up of many microscopic silica spheres. Because light interferes with the internal architecture of these jewels, which are renowned for their “dance of colors,” rainbow hues appear when they are moved.
In fissures and crevices in volcanic rocks that are close to the surface, opals form. Percolating groundwater dissolves silica in sedimentary volcanic ash rock, which finally crystallizes to produce the opal. Rarely does it replace fossilized wood, bones, or shells whose original material has disintegrated away.
Characteristics of opals
Opals are soft stones that can easily have their appearance changed by variations in pressure and heat. The gemstone’s appearance depends on the water content in the rock. An opal shrinks somewhat as water evaporates out of it, and the stress of the evaporation causes fissures in the stone.
Opals’ distinctive colors are caused by impurities within the rock. Tiny gas bubble inclusions are indicated by milky or pearly opals. Iron oxides are indicated by yellows and reds. Magnesium oxides and organic carbon within the stone give the magnificent black opals their color, which can occasionally show flashes of green, blue, and red. The harlequin design, which has sizable angular patches of red, yellow, and green that resemble the checks on a clown’s outfit, is possibly the most expensive opal pattern.
Australia is where most of the world’s opals are mined. It is famous for its stunning black opals in particular. Another newer supplier of opals is Ethiopia. On a lesser scale, northern Nevada is home to a large variety of opals, some of which are in the form of fossilized wood. Mexico, Canada, Brazil, Honduras, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Turkey, and the Czech Republic are additional commercial opal producers.
Opal lore
The Sanskrit term for opal is the source of the name “opalus, from the Latin word upala, means “precious stone.”
The fascinating iridescence of the opal was described by the ancient Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder in his book, “Precious Stones’ Natural History.
The hardest to describe of all valuable stones is opal, which exhibits at once the piercing fire of carbunculus, the purple brilliance of amethystos, and the sea-green of smaragdus, all mingled together and refulgent with an extraordinary brightness.
The history of the opal is based on an Indian myth. Adapted from Willard Heaps’ book Gemstones:
The gods Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva once competed over a lovely woman out of jealous love. The Eternal became enraged by this and transformed the fair mortal into a mist creature. The three gods then gave her their respective colors so that they could each distinguish her. She was endowed by Brahma with the dazzling blue of the skies, by Vishnu with the grandeur of gold, and by Shiva with his blazing red. However, it was all in vain because the exquisite phantom was carried off by the winds. Finally, the Eternal felt sorry for her and changed her into an opal, a stone that glistens in every hue of the rainbow.
Heaps also noted that opals had symbolic significance in earlier cultures. Opals were dubbed the Cupid stone by the Romans. The anchor of hope, as the Asians called it. Arabs thought that people descended from the sky. Opals were originally the talisman of thieves and spies in Poland because it was believed that wearing one would render the wearer invisible.
October birthstone: evil superstitions
An opal’s color intensity was thought to shift during the medieval era, signaling whether the wearer was healthy or ill. According to legend, the opal kept a robust heart, avoided fainting, guarded against infection, and purified odorous air. The stone continued to stand for optimism just as it has in the past.
But by the middle of the 14th century, the opal’s reputation had shifted. The Black Death raced through Europe, wiping out one-fourth of its people. The gem was thought to be the fatal factor. When worn by a victim of the fatal plague, it was bright only while the wearer was still alive. Then it would seem different and lose its brilliance. It was actually this stone’s sensitivity to temperature fluctuations that caused it to appear different as the heat of a raging fever gave way to the chill of death.
People in Elizabethan England prized opals for their beauty. It was referred to as the “queen of diamonds” by Shakespeare in Twelfth Night. Opals gained popularity because Queen Victoria cherished them and gave them to her children. However, the stone’s reputation remained tainted, largely as a result of Sir Walter Scott’s 1829 book Anne of Geierstein, which portrayed it as a stone of evil.
Opals have always played a role in Australian Aboriginal cultures. In one tale from the Dreamtime, a pelican was sleeping amid a spectacular display of hues. A spark that was released when he picked at the colored stones set the dry grass on fire. His people were able to prepare fish and meat for the first time as the fire spread to them.
Tourmaline, an alternate October birthstone
Tourmaline, which displays the widest range of gemstone hues, is the alternate birthstone for October. Gem-quality varieties of this material have previously been mistaken for sapphires, emeralds, and rubies. In actuality, it was long believed that a famous tourmaline, about the size of a pigeon’s egg, belonged to the Russian monarch Catherine the Great.
Toramalli, a phrase used to describe bright stones in Singhalese (Sri Lankan), is said to be the source of the name of this gemstone.
Tourmaline characteristics
A complex silicate mineral that contains boron, tourmaline can also contain other elements like iron, aluminum, magnesium, sodium, and lithium. They are available in a wide range of hues, including yellow, green, red, blue, pink, brown, and black. The colors of gemstones are caused by metals that are part of the crystal structure. Manganese, for instance, is responsible for the color pink. While magnesium provides browns and yellows, iron produces colors that range from black to deep brown. Lithium-rich tourmalines can generate a range of hues, including blues, greens, and reds. Even some crystals have the ability to be bicolored. The watermelon tourmaline variant features a pink or light red inside and green outer margins that change to a translucent white zone.
Tourmalines are attracted to tiny pieces of paper, lint, and ash when heated or rubbed. The gem acquires a static electrical charge as a result. Benjamin Franklin actually used this gem in his research on electricity. Tourmaline exhibits in museums need to be cleaned frequently because the heat from the display case’s lights charges the gemstone, which attracts dust.
Tourmalines were only recently discovered compared to other gemstones. As a result, it lacks the extensive history that many other precious stones have. However, some consider tourmaline to be the “peace stone,” dispelling fear and calming the wearer.
What color was October born under?
Opal is the birthstone for October, and its birthstone color options are Multi-Color, White, or Pink. Pink tourmaline is the alternate birthstone for October, and opal and tourmaline are the actual birthstones for this month.
Opal, peridot, and lapis lazuli are the Zodiac birthstones for Libra (born between September 24 and October 23). Aquamarine, coral, and topaz are the zodiac birthstones for Scorpio, which runs from October 24 to November 22. The marigold and cosmos, which are the birthflowers for October, are additional birthday symbols.
Opal jewelry is presented to commemorate a 14th wedding anniversary while tourmaline jewelry is given to mark an eighth wedding anniversary, in addition to being a meaningful gift for an October birthday.
The word “opal” derives from the Sanskrit upala, which means “precious stone,” and the Greek opallios, which means “to see a change of hue.” The brilliant Opal gemstone is linked to creativity, inventiveness, fidelity, innocence, and hope.
Opal is essentially a silica gel that has been cemented, and over thousands of years it has been able to replace pieces of animal skeletons, plants, and wood to create opalized fossils and opalized wood. Jewelry and home dcor are made from interesting materials.
Which gemstone suits a Libra?
Although opal is the birthstone associated with success for people born under the sign of Libra, they can also try peridot, sapphire, tourmaline, aquamarine, and agate.
Is opal pricey?
One of the most important factors in opal pricing is body tone. It speaks about the opal’s underlying shade (background color). Body colors range from dark to light to black. Because they tend to display colors considerably more vividly, black and dark body tones are typically the most desirable.
Price per carat for dark opals can range from $30 to $1,500. However, due to rarity, the price per carat increases noticeably as the size of the opal increases, such as in the 510 carat range. Black opals of the highest caliber are extremely rare and will cost considerably more than the aforementioned price range for dark opals.
White opals normally cost $20 to $200, although their price can rise significantly depending on the quality and size of the stone.
Fire opals can sell for a very high price. The price per carat for premium fire opals can range from $50 to $10,000. It is based on the degree of transparency and the intensity of the color play.
Overall, there is a wide range of pricing, just like with all precious and semi-precious gemstones. You must take into account the opal’s type, body tone, brilliance, color pattern, color bar thickness, play of color, and any faults it may have when evaluating opals. In addition, consider the size of the opal and the quality of the cut and polish.
Why is opal used?
Opal, the birthstone for October, represents loyalty and assurance. The name is derived from the Greek word opallios, which means “to observe a shift in color,” and the Latin word opalus, which means “valuable jewel.” Learn more about the birthstone for this month!
What flower blooms in October?
Marigold and cosmos are the two birth flowers for October. Both stems grow well in the summer and fall and have a long history in gardening, folk medicine, and history. A gift that was inspired by the cosmos is gorgeous and significant when you need to recognize someone whose birthday is in October. The diameter of this daisy-like flower ranges from 3 to 5 inches, and its hues are varied. The orange Cosmos is a symbol of October birthdays, but it also comes in pink, white, and purple colors, which make lovely gift possibilities.
What color is a Libra?
Pink and blue, which assist open the heart and soften one’s presence, are the colors of Libra. These soft colors, which represent a cool, tranquil air, give Libra’s demeanor a calming and endearing presence. Pink emphasizes Libra’s kind and compassionate character, while light blue heightens clarity and balance.
ARIES (MARCH 21- APRIL 19)
This day might not get off to a nice start for you. Lack of focus among students may make it harder for them to retain what they have learned. You’ll be able to spend time with your loved ones in a meaningful way. Use the digits 1 and 8 as well as the color red as markers.
TAURUS (APRIL 20- MAY 20)
You’re going to have a good start to your Monday. You’re going to develop friendships with academics. Stressful circumstances will eventually pass, providing you with the mental relief you sorely needed. Because of your tendency to brag, you can find yourself with unexpected bills. For success, pay attention to the color white and the numbers 2 and 7.
GEMINI (MAY 21- JUNE 20)
The work your staff are doing will make you happy. Key projects may be awarded to working professionals. Take good care of yourself because it’s possible that you’ll experience health problems. Avoid juggling too many tasks at once. Your lucky numbers are 3 and 6, and the color yellow is also fortunate for you.
CANCER (JUNE 21- JULY 22)
You have a very good day today. You will enjoy yourself immensely in your romantic partnership. High-ranking commanders will give you crucial recommendations and guidance. Be careful while filling out the application for a loan on a piece of property or a car if you want to do so. Because of outside meddling, your work may be ruined. The color milky and the number 4 will make your day easier.
LEO (JULY 23- AUGUST 23)
Thoughts of a spiritual and philosophical nature will have a big impact on you. Your family members will live in harmony and prosper. Your strong moral principles will be honored. It is advisable that you refrain from expressing your views on topics affecting other individuals. Your lucky colors and numbers today are likely to be golden and five.
VIRGO (AUGUST 23- SEPTEMBER 22)
To finish your projects, you’ll put in a lot of effort. Your family will demonstrate its confidence in you. People will be quite impressed by your persuasive speaking style. You may start a brand-new partnership-based company. People will ask you for guidance. Your day will be luckier if it contains the numbers 3 and 8, as well as the color green.
LIBRA (SEPTEMBER 23- OCTOBER 22)
You can make plans to purchase a new home. You will perform brilliantly in competitive tests. Be kind and respectful to your business associates. You’ll enjoy participating in religious activities. Improve your temper and make an effort to avoid using vulgar words around other people. You are lucky if you use the numbers 2 and 7, as well as the color white.
SCORPIO (OCTOBER 23- NOVEMBER 21)
The entire day will see you pleased and upbeat. Your life partner will be incredibly helpful. The challenges you faced while your higher education will no longer exist. However, there’s a chance that your aggressive personality could cause some issues. For assistance, use the numerals 1 and 8, as well as the color red.
SAGITTARIUS (NOVEMBER 22- DECEMBER 21)
Spending time with the people you love will make you happy. Your coworkers will be impressed with you at work. Your commitment to and self-control in life will be admired. The day is advantageous from a financial standpoint. The colors yellow and the numbers 9 and 12 will help make your day more cheerful.
CAPRICORN (DECEMBER 22- JANUARY 19)
You’ll make an effort to clear up any prior misconceptions with your life mate. You’ll be productive with your time before binge-watching the remaining episodes of your preferred online series. You can create new sources of revenue. Your lucky numbers and color for Monday are 10 and 11, respectively.
AQUARIUS (JANUARY 20- FEBRUARY 18)
Reputation among voters may improve for politicians. You’ll get financial support from your buddies. Because of your upbeat disposition, people want to be your friends. You’ll be attempting to learn anything beneficial. You can feel worn out after a lengthy trip. You’ll be fortunate if you see the digits 10 and 11, as well as the color cyan.
PISCES (FEBRUARY 19- MARCH 20)
You might make some money on this day. Students will achieve great success in their academic endeavors. You’ll maintain your strength mentally. Never put too much trust in anyone. Your astrological chart indicates that yellow and the numbers 9 and 12 are lucky colors and numbers for you.