Opal: October's Birthstone

If you were born in October, you have two birthstones to choose from, tourmaline and opal. Opal is renowned for its rainbow spectrum of colours, representing hope, clarity and truth. It is also said to have healing properties, giving the wearer a better emotional balance, reducing stress and strengthening your memory. 

Many myths have been associated with opals for centuries. Whether these stones fell from the sky during thunderstorms or opals were created from Zeus’ tears from beating the Titans, these are a few myths associated with this gemstone.

Here, we cover what you need to know about Opal, October’s birthstone.

The Meaning of October’s Birthstone

Creativity, loyalty, love, passion and truth are all associated with the opal gemstone. It is believed if you wear an opal, it can protect you against illnesses, including fevers and infections. 

Historically, Opals were poetically called the ‘Light of the world’ and ‘Queen of Gems’ as they were believed to possess all the characteristics of all gemstones as you peer into them and see their vast spectral colours. Europeans believed the gemstone was a symbol of truth, purity and hope. Ancient Greeks saw opals as a gift of prophecy and protected them from diseases. Opals have so many stories, tales and myths about this unique gemstone that create so much intrigue and reason to gift a loved one born in October with this incredible gemstone. Opals are also said to improve your confidence, self-esteem and self-worth, helping you realise your full potential.

Where is Opal Found?

Opals have been discovered in Brazil, Mexico and the Western United States. However, the vast majority of opals are found in Australia and it is their official national gemstone. New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia are the three states where opals are mined. White Cliffs and Coober Pedy are where most black and white opals are produced today.

How is Opal Formed?

Many opals are formed underneath the earth from a mixture of silicon dioxide and water. This process happens during the acidic weathering of rocks, this is caused when water runs down through the earth and the silica is picked up from the sandstone. It carries a silica-rich solution that runs into voids and cracks in the rock caused by decomposing fossils or natural faults. Over time, as the water evaporates the cycles keep repeating until the opal is formed.

What Colour is Opal?

Opals come in many different colours, depending on the location and environment where its produced. Some of the most popular opal colours include:

• White
• Black
• Grey
• Blue
• Red-Orange

Where is Opal Rated on the Mohs Hardness Scale?

Opal is rated between 5 and 6.5 on the Mohs Hardness scale, making it one of the most delicate gemstones you can buy for your jewellery. 

This is why you must choose the setting for your opal gemstone wisely. Many opt for a bezel or rubover setting that surrounds and protects this precious gemstone. If you own a piece of opal jewellery, you must take care to avoid damaging the stone. You should avoid wearing an opal in extremely dry weather. 

Rapid weather changes can cause an opal to crack. You should avoid taking opals on holiday and avoid water as water penetration can cause foggy cloudiness to appear. It means your opal stone will absorb the water, causing your opal to lose its fire temporarily or turn yellow or brown. 

The colour and fire can return as your opal begins to dry out and you should see the fire return. However, we always advise you to avoid water to keep your opal in the best condition possible. You should store your opal jewellery in a padded cloth-lined bag or box if you plan not to wear your jewellery.

What Opal Jewellery Should I Buy?

Are you looking for the perfect opal ring or earrings? At Shining Diamonds, we understand the importance of making an informed decision about your jewellery purchase. While we offer loose opals online, we can create your dream piece of opal jewellery via our bespoke service in-store. Whether you want a pair of opal earrings, a pendant or an engagement ring, our team of skilled jewellers will make your opal jewellery piece become a reality.

Celebrate your October birthday in style by buying yourself opal or tourmaline jewellery from Shining Diamonds. Our diamond experts are here with you at every step of your October birthstone jewellery purchase. Discover your perfect opal stone by booking an appointment at our Brighton Lanes, Hatton Garden or Birmingham Jewellery Quarter showrooms today.