October Birthstones: Opal and Tourmaline

History, Symbolism and Meaning

October’s birthstone opal is beloved for its eye-catching rainbows and inner colors that dance in every light, leading Ancient Romans to describe it as the most powerful gem. Historically, opals were believed to bring good luck to all who wore or carried them, but changing times and cultural events led many to associate them with bad luck. Though some still hold this belief, many societies of the past and present have considered opal to be a symbol of hope and purity. During the Middle Ages, opals were believed to support good eyesight and prevent hair discoloration. Arabic legends suggested that opals actually contained lightning and rained down from the sky. With their iridescent shine, it’s easy to imagine these stones filled with celestial energy.

In today’s world, opal gemstones are believed to bring balance to your mood and trust within oneself while crystal healers believe the use of opal improves memory, fights infection, and eases the birthing process.

October’s opal birthstone forms when water carries silica, a common mineral, into rock cracks and holes. Unlike most gemstones, opals have no crystal structure and are instead composed of silica spheres. The larger the sphere, the wider range of color the stone displays. While most gemstones form in geometric patterns, opals form in a marvelous mosaic pattern of circles and typically contain 3-10% water. Though 95% of opals are produced in Australia and is the national gemstone, these gorgeous gems can be found all over the world including Brazil, Canada, Hungary, Indonesia, Mexico and more.