Birthstone for October : Opal, Tourmaline (all you need to know)

Birthstone for October : Opal, Tourmaline

(all you need to know)


Birthstone for October is Opal

Opal, known for its stunning play-of-color and unique patterns, serves as one of the two birthstones for October. This captivating gemstone is valued for its ability to refract light into a visually mesmerizing array of colors when turned. While opals can be found around the world, Australia produces over 90% of the global supply of this mineraloid.

There are many types of opal, which come in various base hues such as white, red, purple, and black. The play-of-color effect in opals is created by the formation of silica spheres within the gemstone, causing light to bounce and produce a dazzling display of colors throughout the stone.

Aside from their incredible aesthetic appeal, opals have been linked to various symbolic meanings, such as love, fidelity, purity, and hope. Consequently, these gems make thoughtful and meaningful gifts for loved ones or for those celebrating an October birthday or a 14th wedding anniversary.

When incorporating opal into jewelry, there are some factors to consider. With a Mohs Hardness rating of 5.5 to 6.5, opals are more susceptible to scratching and chipping than tougher gemstones. Therefore, opals are more suitable for special occasion wear rather than daily use.

In summary, opal serves as one of the two birthstones for the month of October, offering a unique and mesmerizing appearance. With its rich symbolism and striking play-of-color, it’s an attractive choice for celebrating life events and milestones. However, care should be taken with opal jewelry to ensure its longevity and lasting beauty.


Is Opal a Precious Stone?

Opal is indeed considered a precious gemstone, known for its unique play of colors and mesmerizing patterns. This gemstone possesses a certain charm and mystique, which captivates both jewelers and enthusiasts alike. Opal, classified as a mineraloid, is primarily composed of silica, and its formation occurs in the cracks of rocks over time.

One of the reasons that classify opal as a precious stone is its rarity. Although it can be found in various places worldwide, over 90% of the world’s opal supply comes from Australia. Other sources include Brazil, Mexico, and the United States. Its relative scarcity adds to its value, making it a sought-after gemstone in the market.

In addition to its rarity, the stunning array of colors displayed in opal further enhances its precious status. Depending on the gem’s structure, opals can exhibit various colors, including blues, greens, reds, and oranges. This phenomenon, known as “play-of-color,” results from the diffraction of light as it passes through the microscopic silica spheres within the opal.

It is essential to note that there are different types of opals, each with its own unique characteristics and value. Some of the most common types include:

  • White Opal: Predominantly milky white with a play-of-color, mainly found in Australia
  • Black Opal: Dark background color with a vibrant play-of-color, mostly mined from Australia’s Lightning Ridge
  • Crystal Opal: Transparent or semi-transparent with a stunning play-of-color, sourced from various locations
  • Fire Opal: Transparent to translucent gem with fiery red, orange, and yellow colors, primarily found in Mexico

Moreover, opal also has historical and cultural significance. The Romans believed it to be the most powerful and precious of all gemstones, while Bedouins thought that opals contained lightning and fell from the sky during thunderstorms. This rich and diverse background only adds to the distinct splendor of opal as a precious gemstone.


What does Opal signify?

Opal, the traditional and modern birthstone for October, signifies a unique and vibrant gemstone with a rich history. Derived from the Sanskrit word upala, meaning precious stone, and the Greek word opallios, meaning ‘to see a change of color’, opals are known for their stunning play of colors and iridescent properties.

These captivating gemstones are believed to bring about creativity, confidence, and positive transformation to those who wear them. With their dynamic appearance and ability to reflect a multitude of colors, opals are thought to symbolize hope, purity, and truth.

In addition to being a birthstone for October, opals are also associated with a 14th wedding anniversary. As a gift, these gemstones represent loyalty, trust, and everlasting love between couples. Their unique color combinations make opals truly one-of-a-kind and reflective of the special bond shared by the couple.

Opals can be found in many parts of the world, with Australia producing over 90% of the world’s supply. Their wide-ranging colors and patterns make each opal unique, and they are often seen in various types of jewelry, such as rings, necklaces, and earrings.

However, with a Mohs hardness rating of 5.5 to 6.5, opals are relatively soft gemstones, making them more susceptible to scratches and damage. To preserve their beauty, it is recommended to wear opal jewelry on special occasions rather than every day. Proper care and handling can help maintain the gemstone’s appearance and ensure its longevity for future generations to enjoy.


Is Opal Expensive?

Opal prices can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the type, size, and quality of the stone. In general, precious opals are more valuable than common opals due to their unique play-of-color effect, which is characterized by a pattern of colored flashes distributed throughout the stone.

Some of the factors determining the price of an opal are:

  • Color: The play-of-color displayed by the opal can have a significant impact on its value. Opals with vibrant, vivid colors typically fetch higher prices than those with dull or muted hues.
  • Base color: Precious opals have different base hues, such as white, red, purple, and black. Among these, black opals are considered the most valuable due to their dark background, which makes the play-of-color appear more striking.
  • Pattern: The pattern of color within the opal also affects its worth. Unique and eye-catching patterns tend to be more desirable and valuable.
  • Clarity: Opals with higher transparency and fewer inclusions are generally considered more valuable.
  • Quality of the cut: A well-cut opal can showcase the stone’s play-of-color more effectively and hence is valued higher.

Given the diverse characteristics of opals, it’s important to understand that some types can indeed be expensive, while others are more affordable. For instance, high-quality black opals are considered among the most valuable gemstones and can fetch thousands of dollars per carat. Conversely, common opals and those with lower quality may be priced much more affordably.

In conclusion, opal prices can range from being relatively inexpensive to being considered luxury items, depending on the specific characteristics of the individual stone.


Can Opal be worn everyday?

Opals, the October birthstone, are known for their stunning play of colors and captivating appearance. They are often used in various types of jewelry, from necklaces to earrings and bracelets.

In general, opals can be worn daily due to their durability, provided they receive proper care. The stone is rated 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making them relatively soft compared to other gemstones. While this means they may be more susceptible to scratches and chipping, with the correct preventative measures, opals can retain their beauty and brilliance for daily wear.

To ensure the longevity of your opal jewelry, proper care and maintenance is imperative. Here are some tips to help protect your opal pieces when worn regularly:

  • Clean your opal jewelry with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust and dirt. Avoid using harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or steamers.
  • Take off your opal jewelry when engaging in strenuous activities or using abrasive substances, as they can damage the stone.
  • Always remove your opal jewelry before going to a pool, beach, or spa since chlorine, saltwater, and chemicals can be harmful to the stone.
  • Store your opal jewelry separately from other pieces to prevent scratching, ideally in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box.

Considering these aspects, it is possible to wear an opal every day. However, it is essential to handle this delicate gemstone with care and attention to preserve its beauty and longevity.


In Which Finger Should Opal Be Worn?

Opal, a captivating and colorful gemstone, serves as the birthstone for those born in October. As a traditional engagement gift, many people choose to wear an opal ring on their wedding finger, which is the fourth finger on the left hand. This placement is considered special because it is closest to the heart, symbolizing the stone’s romantic and passionate history.

However, wearing an opal ring on a specific finger is ultimately a personal preference. Birthstone rings can also be worn on other fingers, such as the index finger or pinky finger. Here is a brief guide on wearing opal birthstone rings on different fingers:

  • Wedding Finger (fourth finger on the left hand): As mentioned earlier, this finger holds a special significance for opal rings, primarily if it represents an engagement or strong emotional connection.
  • Index Finger: Wearing an opal ring on the index finger has no particular meaning, but it can be a statement piece that draws attention to the wearer’s hand.
  • Middle Finger: Similar to the index finger, placing an opal ring on the middle finger is a personal preference. It may be chosen for aesthetic reasons or ease of wear.
  • Pinky Finger: Tradition associates the pinky finger with signet or family crest rings. However, wearing an opal birthstone ring on the pinky finger can still be an unconventional and bold choice, demonstrating the wearer’s individuality.

In conclusion, the finger on which an opal ring should be worn depends on the wearer’s preferences and the ring’s purpose. There is no strict rule that dictates where an opal ring must be placed, so one can feel free to wear it on the finger that best suits their style and comfort.


Are Opals Good Luck?

Opals, which are the birthstone for those born in October, have been long associated with luck and mysticism. These iridescent gemstones symbolize hope, purity, and truth. In some cultures, wearing an opal is believed to bring about good fortune, while also representing loyalty, faithfulness, and confidence.

However, there are contrasting beliefs surrounding opals and luck. One popular legend suggests that it is bad luck to wear an opal if you were not born in October. This superstition seems to stem from a belief that wearing an opal when it is not your birthstone can bring about negative energy. It is important to consider that these beliefs and legends might vary across different cultures and individuals.

Opals come in a variety of stunning colors, including white, black, and a whole spectrum in between. The play of color exhibited by opals is due to their unique internal structure, which diffracts light and creates a mesmerizing display of hues. This makes them a popular choice for jewelry, often being used in rings, necklaces, and earrings.

As for the question of whether or not opals bring good luck, it ultimately depends on individual beliefs and cultural backgrounds. Some people embrace the legends and may choose to only wear opals if it is their birthstone, while others appreciate the beauty and symbolism of the gemstone regardless of superstition. In any case, the allure and charm of opals continue to captivate and enchant many.


How do you tell if an Opal is real or fake?

Determining the authenticity of an opal can sometimes be difficult, but there are certain methods you can use to help identify if an opal is real or fake.

  1. Examine the play-of-color: Real opals have a unique play-of-color, in which the colors are organized in a random fashion. If the color pattern appears too uniform, it may be a synthetic opal. Authentic opals will have an even spread of color, meaning the colors are not concentrated on the surface or on a layer just beneath it.
  2. Look for inclusions: Using a magnifying glass or loupe, closely examine the opal for inclusions. Genuine opals often have small natural inclusions, while synthetic opals may show solid-colored columns or other telltale signs of being artificially created.
  3. Check for layers: Real opals usually won’t have multiple layers of color, while fake opals might. If you can see distinct layers in the opal, especially if they appear just below the surface, it may be an indication that the opal is not genuine.
  4. Inspect the side view: Assembled fake opals are typically made from two or three layers, which can be visible from the side. If you can see these layers when examining the opal from the side, it could be a sign that the opal is not real.
  5. Observe the price: Authentic opals, even small ones, will generally cost over $100. If the price seems too good to be true, it might be because the opal is not genuine.

By using these methods to inspect an opal, you can increase your chances of determining whether an opal is real or fake. Make sure to carefully examine the gemstone and consult a professional if you are unsure of its authenticity.


How do you clean Opal?

Opals are delicate gemstones, and proper care is essential to maintaining their beauty and lifespan. When it comes to cleaning opals, it is crucial to be gentle to avoid any potential damage.

To clean an opal, start by preparing a mixture of warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap. This solution is ideal for preserving the integrity of the opal while removing any dirt or grime buildup. Dip a soft-bristled toothbrush into the soapy solution and gently scrub the opal, ensuring not to apply too much pressure.

Once the opal has been thoroughly cleaned with the soapy solution, rinse it under warm water to remove any soap residue. Be cautious not to expose the opal to a sudden change in temperature or excess water pressure, as this could be harmful to the gemstone.

When cleaning opals that are part of a triplet or doublet jewelry piece, take extra care. These types should never be immersed or soaked in water. Instead, use a damp cloth and a little mild detergent to gently clean the surface of the stone.

Here are some important points to consider when cleaning opals:

  • Always use a soft-bristled toothbrush or cloth to avoid scratching the gemstone
  • Use warm water and mild dish soap, avoiding any harsh chemicals or detergents, as they can damage the opal
  • Do not expose opals to sudden changes in temperature or high water pressure
  • Be gentle when cleaning, especially for opal triplets or doublets

Following these guidelines will ensure that your opal gemstone remains beautiful and well-maintained for years to come.


What are the other birthstones for October?

In addition to opal, October is also associated with another beautiful birthstone, tourmaline. This gemstone comes in a wide variety of colors and is known for its remarkable and unique color combinations. While opal is the traditional birthstone for October, pink tourmaline is considered the modern birthstone for this month.

Tourmaline is admired for its rich palette, ranging from pastel pinks to deep, dark greens, and even multicolored hues. Among the various shades of tourmaline, pink tourmaline is specifically designated for October, symbolizing love, compassion, and emotional healing.

Both opal and tourmaline are popular choices for jewelry and make meaningful gifts for those with October birthdays. They each have their own distinctive properties and meanings, allowing individuals to select a birthstone that resonates with their personal preferences and desires.

In summary, the other birthstone for October besides opal is tourmaline, with pink tourmaline being the modern choice for this month. Each gemstone offers its unique beauty and symbolism, making them both excellent options for those born in October.


What Stone Goes Well with Opal?

Opal, the birthstone for October, is famous for its captivating play of colors, making it a sought-after choice for various types of jewelry. However, when pairing opals with other gemstones, it’s essential to consider both visual appeal and practical aspects.

One of the classic combinations with opal is diamond. The sparkling brilliance of diamonds complements the vibrant colors of opals, amplifying their beauty. Additionally, diamonds are remarkably durable, thus offering protection to the delicate nature of opals when used as side stones in rings or other jewelry pieces.

Another suitable gemstone for pairing with opal is sapphire. Both blue and pink sapphires work well, providing a remarkable contrast in colors, especially with white or fire opals. Sapphires are also hard and durable, ensuring that the jewelry pieces are long-lasting and resistant to scratches.

Tourmaline, especially pink tourmaline, is another great option to pair with opals. As a fellow October birthstone, it shares its month with opal and displays an extensive range of colors. Combining pink tourmaline with opal creates a harmonious and visually appealing piece of jewelry.

When selecting stones to pair with opals, keep in mind the following considerations:

  • Choose contrasting colors: Opt for gemstones with colors that differ from the dominant hues of the opal to create a striking visual impact.
  • Consider durability: Opals are relatively soft (with a hardness of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale), so pairing them with harder stones like diamonds, sapphires, or tourmalines can provide additional protection.

In summary, diamonds, sapphires, and tourmalines are excellent options for pairing with opals. They are not only visually appealing but also offer durability and protection to the delicate opal. Remember to consider the contrast in colors and the durability of the chosen gemstones when designing an exquisite opal jewelry piece.


What Chakra is Opal (October Birthstone) associated with?

Opal, the October birthstone, is associated with various chakras and their related healing energies. The specific chakra that the opal is connected to primarily depends on the color exhibited by the stone. As opal can come in a rainbow of colors, it has the potential to resonate with multiple chakras.

  • Crown Chakra: White or clear opals are connected to the crown chakra, located at the top of the head. This chakra represents spiritual connection, enlightenment, and access to higher states of consciousness. Working with white or clear opals can help an individual in their spiritual growth and understanding.
  • Third Eye Chakra: Opals with shades of blue or indigo are associated with the third eye chakra, which is responsible for intuition, psychic abilities, and perceiving things beyond the physical realm. Utilizing blue or indigo opals can aid in developing one’s intuitive and psychic capabilities.
  • Throat Chakra: Light blue or sky-blue opals correspond to the throat chakra, governing communication, self-expression, and speaking one’s truth. These opals help to enhance clear communication and promote confidence in expressing oneself authentically.
  • Heart Chakra: Green and pink opals are related to the heart chakra, which deals with emotions, love, and compassion. These opals can help to open and balance the heart chakra, promoting emotional healing, self-love, and forgiveness.
  • Solar Plexus Chakra: Yellow and gold opals resonate with the solar plexus chakra, which is connected to personal power, self-confidence, and the ability to manifest one’s desires. Working with these opals can help to strengthen one’s sense of self and willpower.
  • Sacral Chakra: Orange opals align with the sacral chakra, located just below the navel. This chakra governs creativity, pleasure, and sexuality. Using orange opals can heighten one’s creative and sensual energies.
  • Root Chakra: Red and black opals are linked to the root chakra, which is responsible for grounding, stability, and the feeling of security. These opals can help to cultivate a strong foundation and sense of safety in one’s life.

In summary, the October birthstone, opal, has the capacity to resonate with various chakras depending on the color exhibited by the stone. Aligning with different chakras allows the opal to promote healing and growth in multiple aspects of a person’s life.


What does Opal do spiritually?

Opal, the birthstone for October, is known for its spiritual properties, helping the individual’s transformation and self-examination. This stone possesses a unique ability to bring one’s traits and characteristics to the surface, thereby facilitating personal growth and exploration of one’s inner feelings and emotions.

In the realm of spirituality, opal is a powerful tool for enhancing cosmic consciousness. It can stimulate flashes of intuition and insight, enabling the seeker to delve deeper into their spiritual journey. This gemstone is particularly effective during meditation and shamanic journeys, providing a protective layer for inner work and self-discovery.

The balancing nature of opal makes it an ideal companion for stabilizing emotions and moods. It is particularly effective for those experiencing mood swings due to mental health or hormonal issues. By promoting self-awareness, opal enables individuals to let go of regrets while focusing on embracing their present and future paths.

Aside from its healing and balancing properties, opal has also been historically associated with invoking invisibility powers for its wearer. This belief adds an element of mystique to the already fascinating spiritual aspects of this beautiful October birthstone.

In summary, opal is a potent spiritual ally for those born in October, granting them access to its unique properties for personal growth, emotional regulation, and expanded cosmic awareness.


What does Opal protect from?

Opals, the October birthstone, have long been associated with various protective properties. Many cultures and beliefs attribute different protective qualities to opals, ranging from physical health benefits to personal and spiritual protection.

In terms of physical health, opals are believed to be beneficial for the eyes, kidneys, and skin. Some people even attribute strengthening properties to white opals, claiming that they can fortify the skin, hair, and nails.

  • Eyes: It is said that wearing or carrying an opal can help improve eyesight and protect the wearer from eye-related issues.
  • Kidneys: Opals are also associated with kidney health, providing protection against kidney diseases and promoting overall renal function.
  • Skin: White opals, in particular, are believed to improve skin health and contribute to a youthful appearance.

In addition to these physical health benefits, opals are also believed to offer spiritual and emotional protection. They have been associated with emotional stability, fostering a sense of calm and balance in the wearer. Opals are said to shield their wearers from negative energies and harmful intentions from others, acting as a protective barrier.

  • Emotional stability: Wearing an opal can help promote emotional balance and alleviate feelings of stress, anxiety, or depression.
  • Protection from negative energies: Opals are believed to absorb and dissipate negative energies from the wearer, providing a sense of comfort and peace.
  • Protection from harm: Wearing an opal can be seen as a talisman, protecting the wearer from accidents, misfortune, or other forms of harm.

While the protective properties of opals widely vary based on cultural beliefs and personal experiences, it is undeniable that these captivating gemstones hold a unique place in the world of birthstones. As the October birthstone, opals serve as both a beautiful adornment and a symbol of the protective qualities attributed to them.


How to Clean the Energy of Opal

Opal, October’s birthstone, is known for its beautiful array of colors and mesmerizing patterns. To maintain its brilliance and ensure its positive energies remain untainted, it’s important to clean the stone regularly. The process is relatively simple and requires basic household items.

Firstly, prepare a solution of warm water and a mild dish soap. The warm water is essential as it helps dissolve any dirt or impurities that may have settled on the gemstone, without causing damage to the opal’s structure. A few drops of dish soap in a cup of warm water will suffice for this purpose.

Dip a soft-bristled toothbrush in the soapy water solution and gently scrub the surface of the opal. This step removes any accumulated dirt, grime, or negative energies that may have been absorbed by the stone. It is important to use a soft-bristled toothbrush, as opals are sensitive and can be scratched or damaged by harsh materials.

Once the opal has been thoroughly cleaned, rinse it under the faucet with a steady flow of clean water. This helps wash away any soap residue and ensures a thorough cleansing of the gemstone. Be careful not to expose the opal to sudden temperature changes during this process, as this may cause internal stress fractures in the stone.

Finally, after cleansing and rinsing, gently pat the opal dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. This step removes any remaining moisture and brings the gemstone’s natural shine back to the forefront.

Following these steps will ensure that the opal maintains its positive energies and continues to bring joy to its wearer for years to come.


How to Recharge Opal

Recharging opal, the October birthstone, is essential to maintain its vibrant energies and beauty. To recharge opal effectively, follow these steps:

  1. Cleansing: Start by gently cleaning opal with a soft cloth or brush to remove any dirt, dust, or oils from the surface. Avoid submerging the stone in water, as opal is a porous rock and can be damaged when exposed to moisture.
  2. Moonlight: One of the most popular methods for recharging gemstones, including opal, is to place them under moonlight. Place your opal on a windowsill or outside in a secure location where it can absorb the moon’s energy during the night. The full moon is especially powerful for this purpose, but any phase of the moon will work.
  3. Sunlight: Another method for recharging opal is by exposing it to sunlight. However, be cautious not to leave your opal in direct sunlight for extended periods, as excessive heat can cause damage to the stone. A few minutes each day is enough to recharge its energies.
  4. Nature: Burying your opal in the earth (soil or sand) can help recharge and ground its energies. Leave the stone buried for a few hours or even overnight, then carefully unearth it and brush off any remaining dirt before use.

In summary, recharging your opal is essential to keep its energies vibrant and potent. Remember to cleanse the gemstone before exposure to moonlight or sunlight, avoid exposing it to excessive moisture, and consider grounding it in the earth. Follow these methods to ensure your opal remains a beautiful and powerful talisman.


Who can wear Opal?

Opal, the beautiful and mesmerizing October birthstone, is known for its unique play of colors, which can differ from one stone to another, making each opal unique. People who are born in October can wear this spectacular gemstone as their birthstone, but it’s not just limited to them.

While opals are strongly associated with October birthdays, people having an affinity with the stone or seeking specific benefits like emotional balance or creativity can also choose to wear opal jewelry. The healing properties of opal are not exclusive to those born in October. This captivating gemstone is said to bring luck, protection, and healing energies to anyone who wears it, regardless of their birth month.

However, one superstition persists, claiming that it’s bad luck to wear opals if you weren’t born in October. This belief, though widely circulated, is not grounded in any tangible proof. In fact, opals have been admired and worn for their beauty and properties by numerous people across the globe, irrespective of their birth month.

To summarize, wearing opal is not restricted to those born in October. Anyone seeking the benefits of this mesmerizing gemstone can wear it, and enjoy its beauty and positive effects.


Opal Buying Guide

Selecting a Quality Opal

When choosing an opal, it is essential to pay attention to the following factors:

  1. Play of Colors: Opals are known for their display of flashing rainbow colors. Select an opal with vibrant and varied color patterns that cover a significant portion of the stone.
  2. Transparency: Opals range from transparent to opaque. Transparent opals often show more intense colors and may be more desirable for certain jewelry styles.
  3. Shape and Cut: Opals can be found in various shapes, including oval, round, and pear. The cut should be symmetrical and well-proportioned to maximize the stone’s beauty.
  4. Size: Opals come in a range of sizes, so choose a size that suits your preference and intended usage.
  5. Inclusions: Some opals may have inclusions or imperfections. Ideally, choose an opal with minimal visible inclusions.

Price Factors

When buying an opal, the following factors tend to influence the price:

  • Type of Opal: Black opals are the rarest and most expensive, while common white opals are generally more affordable. Boulder and matrix opals also vary in price.
  • Origin: Opals from Australia, particularly those from Lightning Ridge, can command a premium due to their quality and rarity.
  • Play of Color: A stone with a more intense and varied play of color will typically fetch a higher price.
  • Size: Larger opals often have a higher per-carat price, as they are less common and considered more valuable.
  • Carat weight: As with most gemstones, the overall carat weight of the opal will influence the final price, with larger stones costing more.

To find the best opal to suit your needs and budget, carefully consider the various factors mentioned above while comparing multiple options. Remember always to purchase from reputable sellers and request proper certification to ensure the quality of your chosen opal.


Birthstone by Month

January Birthstone
– Garnet

February Birthstone
– Amethyst

March Birthstone
– Aquamarine, Bloodstone

April Birthstone
– Diamond

May Birthstone
– Emerald

June Birthstone
– Pearl, Alexandrite, Moonstone

July Birthstone
– Ruby

August Birthstone
– Peridot, Sardonyx, Spinel

September Birthstone
-Sapphire

October Birthstone
– Opal, Tourmaline

November Birthstone
– Topaz, Citrine

December Birthstone
– Tanzanite, Turquoise, Zircon

Birthstone by Birth Month