October borns are a tad luckier than others because they have two birthstones to choose from. Introducing Opal and Tourmaline, the traditional and the modern birthstone for October.
If you are an October-born or if your loved one is, this blog is for you. Let’s read on!
October Birthstones: Insights by the Best Diamond Shop in Chennai
Traditionally, Opal is October’s birthstone, and Tourmaline is the modern option. Why does October have two birthstones? Firstly, having two birthstones is not exclusive to October alone. March and August also share this exclusivity.
In an effort to establish a standardised selection of birthstones, the National Association of Jewelers decided to create a list of accepted birthstones for each month in 1952. The selection has been regularly adjusted to accommodate the latest styles and availability of stones in the market.
One could say that October was lucky to be paired with Opal, undeniably a favourite and unique gem in stunning colour combinations. However, in the course of time, the stone was widely regarded as overly feminine and delicate in appearance. The association hence decided to add pink Tourmaline to October’s list.
Ooh La La, It’s Opal For October!
Opal and October are a match made in heaven! Here’s an interesting fact about this stone: The name “Opal” is believed to have originated from the Sanskrit name Upala, or precious stone. India was, in fact, the source of the first opals brought to the Western world. In ancient Rome, Opals were named Opalus.
What are opals made of?
Opal is formed from the torrential downpours that happened millions of years ago. These downpours occurred in the saturated, arid soil in regions such as Australia’s semi-desert “outback.”
All opal gemstones are made of hydrated amorphous silica with a white or black colour and a spectrum of other hues. They also contain 6-10% water particles. On Moh’s scale, Opals are rated 5.5 to 6, indicating they are far less durable than rubies and other stones.
Nonetheless, when cared for with extra caution and prevented from exposure to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight, opals transform into resplendent gems that can be worn frequently or cherished for special occasions.
Amazing Characteristics of Opal
So, how do you spot an Opal? We list the telltale signs that are uniquely bestowed on this beautiful gemstone.
- The stone generally has an iridescent, milky tone. However, opal is also available in black.
- The stone is also available in popular varieties like Fire Opal, Boulder Opal, and Crystal or Water Opal.
- Opals are classified into precious and common opals. The “play-of-colour” is unique only to precious opals, and these stones may have single, dual, or multiple colours like the rainbow. The common opal, on the other hand, does not display any colours.
Did you know that opals have been revered as bearers of good fortune since ancient times? Even today, these precious gemstones are found all over the world. Australia is the world’s largest resource for black opal, the most valuable of all opal varieties. Opals are also sourced from:
- Nicaragua
- Turkey
- Brazil
- Canada
- Brazil
- Czech Republic
So, how do you differentiate a fake from an original opal? Here’s how: Turn the stone on its side and look for straight-coloured columns running vertically through the stone. The presence of such cues indicates that the gemstones are fake.
How to clean Opals
Opals require nothing more than warm, soapy water for the cleaning process. However, since water weakens the adhesive strength in doublets and triplets. To ensure the protection of this October birthstone, it is advised not to store it near other gems to prevent scratches.
Tourmaline, October’s Second Birthstone
The word “Tourmaline” is derived from the Sinhalese word “Touramalli, ” meaning the stone with mixed colours. True to its name, Tourmaline is a complex multitude of colours. It comprises a formidable group of minerals ranging from pink to blue, purple, green, orange, black, or a combination of all these colours. Tourmaline’s colour palette is unique, which cannot be found in most gemstones.
Generally, Tourmaline symbolises power and protection from anything negative, including toxins, pollutants, and negative thoughts. Tourmalines can dissolve negative energy, turning it into a powerful force of positive energy and beliefs. This magnificent gem is renowned for its reconciliation and compassion qualities and emits an irresistible aura that draws wealth, healing, and friendship towards its wearer.
Regarding its physical properties, Tourmaline is rated 7 to 7.5 points on the Mohs scale for hardness. Hence, it can withstand daily wear and tear and exposure to harsh chemicals. However, it should not be exposed to excess heat.
Tourmaline & Its Characteristics
Tourmalines are attractive gemstones possessing boron-bearing silica and other elements such as:
- Magnesium
- Lithium
- Sodium
- Iron
- Aluminium
This gem also possesses the unique ability to allure minuscule fragments of paper, lint, and ash when subjected to heat or friction. Even when it comes to treating or enhancing the stone, heat is the best option. Once heated, the colours within the stone are improved, thereby increasing the stone’s value and durability.
So, where are these gems sourced from? While Brazil is the primary source of tourmalines, these gems are also found in:
- Tanzania
- Afghanistan
- Namibia
- Mozambique
- United States
- Nigeria
How to care for your Tourmalines
Like Opals, Tourmalines can be cleaned with warm and soapy water to wash off the grime and dirt. Pat and let them completely dry before storing them on a soft cloth inside a container.
What Makes October Birthstones Special?
Both opal and Tourmaline are, by nature, very colourful; hence, it is almost impossible to designate a single colour as the birthstone for October. It is fair to say that October birthstones don’t limit themselves to a single hue but embody many captivating colours. This enchanting duo of birthstones showcases a breathtaking assortment of vibrant pigments and mesmerising reflections, forming a dazzling rainbow of elegance.
If you are an October baby looking for your birthstone, you should know how you benefit from wearing these stones in your jewellery.
Opal
- Wards off evil energies and negativity
- Protects you from diseases and promotes your health
Opal & Tourmaline
- Promote feelings of peace and calmness.
- Mitigates anger and helps maintain temperament
- Enhance artistic expression and creativity
The vibrant pink and green tourmaline stones are renowned for harmonising the heart chakra and fostering emotional well-being.
Get Your Birthstones From Khwaahish: The Best Diamond Shop in Chennai
Wearing birthstones is not a trend but a practice that has transcended history. These extraordinary stones have evolved over the years to embody present preferences, ideas, and fashions.
Khwaahish Diamonds is the best diamond shop in Chennai to buy your birthstones and understand their significance. We proudly present our carefully curated collection, a homage to these exquisite treasures. Each piece embodies the essence of time-honoured traditions, harmoniously blending them with modern sophistication. Visit our showroom or webpage, or contact us right away.
