OCTOBER BIRTHSTONES

How many birthstones are there for the month of October?

There are two gemstones that symbolize the Month of October, opal and tourmaline.  Let’s Talk about OPALS.

What is the History and symbolism of Opals?

This is a mystical gemstone with a unique history and symbolism. The name “opal” comes from the Greek word “opallios” which means to “see a change of color.” This is evident when you look at the milky iridescence of opals which can change from blue, pink, red, silver and other colors when moved in the light. This is called opalescence.

Opals have been treasured for thousands of years; the ancient Greeks and Romans believed they were a source of both hope and purity. In the Middle Ages, opals were considered a symbol of good luck and were often used in jewelry. Fast forward to the Art Nouveau era (late 19th to early 20th century) when opals became highly popular due to their unique, mystical play of colors. Opals have long been associated with creativity, inspiration and love – and they are thought to bring happiness and good luck to their wearers.

Are there different types of opals?

Variations in Opal Colors can have a tremendous effect on their value.

There are 4 main types of natural opals; black or dark opal, white or light opal, boulder opal, and crystal opal, and 25 distinct subtypes of opals with unique characteristics based on region:

• White Opal:  This is the most common form of opal, and it is known for its greyish-white body color with beautiful flashes of play of color.
• Black Opal: These opals have a black body color, which shows the vividness of their flashes of color. Australian black opals are among the most highly prized opals of all.
• Boulder Opal: This type of opal is found in ironstone, and often has a mix of colors and patterns, with the host rock forming part of the gem.
• Crystal Opal: These are transparent to semi-transparent, allowing the play-of-color to be exceptionally vibrant.

How Are Opals Formed?

Opals are formed by hydrated silica deposits, which means they are built up by hot water that is carrying silica. The water must be hot enough to dissolve the silica, so that the mixture trickles down into veins and fissures in the rocks. Over time, this build up to form opals, most often in volcanic regions.

Where are Opals found? and How Durable are they?

Natural opals are found in Australia, Ethiopia, Mexico, Brazil, Peru, Honduras and the U. S.

Opals rank a 5 to a 6.5 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, which means they are not really suitable for everyday wear, unless you are very careful. Although perfect to wear as fashion jewelry, they can easily scratch or become broken. It’s advisable to save your opal jewelry for special occasions only.

Looking for some Fashion tips on How To Wear Opals?

For casual outfits like jeans and t-shirts, wear simple opals set in a pendant or in earrings. Opals should not fight with highly colored clothing or overly dramatic makeup, as their play-of-color will be lost. Remember, they can be easily damaged.

Fire opals make an outstanding burst of color in this Vintage Diamond Fire Opal 18K Gold Deco Wide Bracelet

According to our GIA Gemologist Vru:

“My Favorite Luxury watch brand is most certainly Piaget. A classic style of its own – unmistakably tasteful design in Luxury – even if you’re dressing down, your outfit is fully styled when accompanied by a Piaget. Seamless tone and comfort in the band“

Says Vrunelli G. Dover Jewelry’s GIA team Gemologist.

Tourmaline: the History, Symbolism & Colors

The name tourmaline is believed to have derived from the Sinhalese word “tura mali” which means “stone with mixed colors.” Its use has been dated back to ancient Egypt, but it gained popularity in Europe when it was discovered in Sri Lanka during the 18th century. Throughout history, tourmaline has been confused with other gemstones due to its wide range of colors.

Tourmaline has long been associated with various metaphysical and healing properties, but its specific symbolism depends on its color.

• Pink Tourmaline: This color tourmaline is associated with love, compassion and emotional healing. It is a gemstone of the heart, linked to empathy and romanticism.
• Green Tourmaline: This is linked to prosperity, abundance and personal growth. It is also thought to simulate one’s ability to manifest goals.
• Black Tourmaline: Also known as indicolite, this color is associated with clarity of thought and clear communication.
• Watermelon Tourmaline: This variety comes in pink and green watermelon-like patterns and is often linked to harmony and balance in emotions and relationships.
• Multi-colored Tourmaline: Tourmalines that come in a mix of colors are seen as symbols of creativity, and diversity, embracing the full spectrum of life’s experiences.

How are Tourmaline formed and where are they found?

Tourmaline is formed through several different processes including magma crystallization – when magma cools and solidifies within the Earth’s crust, hydrothermal processes – when hot, mineral-rich water cools and interacts with surrounding rock, metamorphism – when rock is subjected to intense temperatures and pressures, metasomatism when existing minerals break down and react with nearby minerals to form tourmaline, and pegmatite formation when high mineral igneous rocks form from cooling magma. Tourmaline is mostly mined in Brazil, Africa and the U.S.

Tourmaline ranks a 7 to a 7.5 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, which means it is reasonably durable, however, it can be damaged by heat which can alter its color.

Birthstone Gift Ideas

Due to its variety of colors and versatility with any kind of outfit, tourmaline makes a wonderful birthstone gift. We have several selections to show you what we mean:

Both opal and tourmaline give you an endless choice of special October birthstone gifts. They are both versatile, colorful, beautiful gemstones, and your loved one will appreciate the time you spent choosing the absolute perfect one.

We invite you to view our entire collection of October Opals and Tourmalines for both Men and Women. Don’t see the item you covet? please contact our Gem Team and let our Global Reach help you find it!