October Birthstone : Opal
Birthstone Color: Multi-colored
The Opal derives its name from the Latin word "opalus," meaning precious
jewel. Prized for its unique ability to refract and reflect specific
wavelengths of light, the Opal was called "Cupid Paederos" by the Romans,
meaning a child beautiful as love. One legendary explanation for
this gemstone's origin is that it fell from heaven in a flash of fiery
lightning.
Ancient monarchs treasured Opals, both for their beauty and for their
presumed protective powers. They were set into crowns and worn
in necklaces to ward off evil and to protect the eyesight. These
gemstones were also ground and ingested for their healing properties
and to ward off nightmares.
The Opal dates back to prehistoric times. It is a non-crystallized
silica, which is a mineral found near the earth's surface in areas where
ancient geothermal hot springs once existed. As the hot springs
dried up, layers of the silica, combined with water, were deposited
into the cracks and cavities of the bedrock, forming Opal. This
gemstone actually contains up to 30% water, so it must be protected
from heat or harsh chemicals, both of which will cause drying and may
lead to cracking and loss of iridescence. Opal must also be guarded
from blows, since it is relatively soft and breaks easily.
Most of the world's Opal deposits are found in Southern Australia.
Other sources of this gemstone are Brazil, Mexico, Czechoslovakia and
Nevada. Quality Opal is very expensive, made more so by the caution
that must be exercised in cutting, polishing and setting it into jewelry.
A gift of Opal is symbolic of faithfulness and confidence. And
the powerful energy radiating from this fiery gemstone will surely illuminate
any occasion!
Alternate Birthstone
An alternate birthstone for October, Pink Tourmaline has the seemingly
magical property of pyroelectricity. Scientifically speaking,
this means that when heated, the gem takes on a static electric charge,
making it capable of attracting lightweight objects. No wonder this
gemstone was revered for its mystical properties centuries ago!
Considered the "stone of the muse," it was believed to stimulate the
creative process of its wearer. Pink varieties of Tourmaline range in
color from pastel pink to ruby red and are mined in Brazil, Afghanistan,
Burma, and India. A gift of this stone is symbolic of hope.
Please check here
to view our selection of simulated and genuine opal items
