What Is October Birthstone? Opal And Tourmaline

October is on the way! Libra (September 23 - October 22) and Scorpio (October 23 - November 21) also fall in this month. Each month has its unique birthstone(s). So what's the birthstone for October? Opal and tourmaline are both October birthstones. Do these two types of gemstones attract you? Come with Juyoyo to learn more about their origin, history, characteristics, symbolism, and more! Let's get started!

Introduction

• What Is October's Birthstone?
• Why Are There Two October Birthstones?
• What Is the October Birthstone Color?
• October Birthstone - Opal
• October Birthstone - Tourmaline
• Pink Tourmaline vs. Pink Sapphire
• Additional Birthstone for October: Rose Quartz
• How to Buy Opal or Tourmaline Jewelry
• FAQs about Opal & Tourmaline

What Is October's Birthstone?

There are two gemstones: opal and tourmaline, which are the birthstones for October. Opal has been the traditional October birthstone for centuries. Opal often symbolizes hope, purity, and creativity. Tourmaline, on the other hand, is a relatively new addition to the list of October birthstones. Tourmaline is often associated with love, compassion, and emotional healing. They represent the diverse and vibrant qualities associated with those born in this month.

Why Are There Two October Birthstones?

Opal has been the primary and traditional October birthstone for centuries. It can be traced back to the breastplate of Aaron, which was adorned with 12 gemstones. Each stone represented one of the 12 tribes of Israel, and it became a tradition to assign gemstones to specific months. Tourmaline is the newly added October birthstone on the modern list of birthstones created by the American National Retail Jewelers Association in 1912. Tourmaline was introduced as an alternative birthstone for October because of its vibrant hues and metaphysical properties. Having two birthstones in October allows those born that month to choose the stone that resonates most with them or matches their personal style preferences.

What Is the October Birthstone Color?

The birthstone color for the month of October is associated with Opals and Tourmalines. Opal comes in play of colors, including white, pink, blue, orange, etc. Tourmaline also comes in several colors like pink, blue, green, and watermelon colors. Pink tourmaline and opal are considered as the October birthstone. Among these colors, white or pink color are the most representative colors for October. There are other sayings about the color of October. October falls in autumn and is associated with the harvest season. So the best color for October may be earthy colors, such as oranges, browns, and mossy greens. What's more, Libra and Scorpio fall in October, and each has its own lucky and powerful colors. Libra's lucky and powerful colors are blue, pink, and white. While Scorpios are white, red, and brown. Since these birthstones have multiple colors, there are no absolute colors for October.

October Birthstone - Opal

Where Can Opal Be Found?

Opal can be found in various countries such as Australia, Ethiopia, Mexico, Brazil, the United States, etc. Each location produces unique opals.

• White Opalsand Crystal Opals are mainly found in Australia.
• Black Opalsare mainly found in Lightning Ridge, New South Wales, Australia.
• Fire Opalsare mainly found in Mexico and Brazil.
• Boulder Opalsare mainly found in Queensland.
• The precious Ethiopian Welo Opalsare mainly found in Ethiopia.

History of Opal

Opal has a history that spans centuries. Its name is derived from the Sanskrit "upala" or "precious stone" in ancient India. Then changed to "opalus" in ancient Rome. In Greek times, the Greek word "opallos" changed to the English term "opal," meaning "to see a color change. This is consistent with the color play of opal. In the 19th century, opal deposits were discovered in Australia, which quickly became the world's leading source of opal. Today, opal is celebrated for its unique color play and is used extensively in jewelry, such as vintage opal rings, unique opal wedding ring sets, and so on.

Characteristics of Opal

• Play of Color: One of the most distinctive features of opal is its play of color, where the stone displays a vibrant spectrum of colors that seem to change and shift as the gemstone is viewed from different angles.
• Varieties: Opal comes in several varieties, including white opal, black opal, crystal opal, fire opal, Ethiopian Welo opal, and boulder opal.
• Durability: Opal is rated 5 - 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it relatively hard for everyday use. It is important to handle opal with care to preserve its beauty.

Continue reading: How to Identify Opal: A Comprehensive Guide to Tell If An Opal Is Real or Fake

Symbolic Meaning of Opal

Opal has long been associated with hope, love, purity, and inspiration. This dazzling gemstone also symbolizes artistic expression and passion, which can enhance creativity, imagination, and emotional freedom. Valued for its ever-changing play of color and ethereal beauty, Opal is considered a stone of transformation and renewal, encouraging personal growth and spiritual awakening.

Continue reading: The Symbolism of Opal Engagement Rings: A Unique Expression of Love

October Birthstone - Tourmaline

Image from the Internet

History of Tourmaline

Tourmaline also has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The name "Tourmaline" is derived from the Sinhalese word "tura mali," which means "mixed gem" or "gem of mixed colors," reflecting the gemstone's wide range of colors and varieties. Tourmaline became a fashionable gemstone at European courts, especially during the Victorian era. Today, it is often used in intricate jewelry designs and is associated with creativity, protection, and balancing energies.

Characteristics of Tourmaline

Color variety: Tourmaline comes in a wide range of colors, including pink, green, blue, red, yellow, and multicolored varieties.

• Hardness: Tourmaline has a Mohs hardness of 7 - 7.5. This makes it durable and suitable for everyday wear.
• Pleochroism: Tourmalines exhibit pleochroism, which means they appear in different colors when light shines on them from different angles.
• Piezoelectricity: There are a few gemstones that exhibit piezoelectricity and tourmaline is one of them. It can generate an electrical charge when subjected to pressure or heat, making it widely used in industrial applications.

Symbolic Meaning of Tourmaline

Tourmaline is associated with creativity, protection, balance, and healing. Pink Tourmaline is associated with love, compassion, and emotional healing. It is believed to enhance feelings of self-love and empathy.

Pink Tourmaline vs. Pink Sapphire

Pink Tourmaline and Pink Sapphire are two similar gemstones known for their delicate pink hues. However, they differ in some key characteristics:

• Color - Pink tourmaline, also known as rubellite, has a softer, pastel pink color. Pink Sapphire often has a more intense, vibrant pink color.
• Hardness - Pink Tourmaline is 7 - 7.5 on the Mohs scale, while Pink Sapphire is 9 on the Mohs scale. This means that pink sapphire is harder and more resistant to scratching than pink tourmaline.
• Value - Pink sapphire is more expensive than pink tourmaline, especially for its rarity and intense pink varieties. But for larger or higher quality stones, tourmaline is the more affordable choice.

Additional Birthstone for October: Rose Quartz

While opal and tourmaline are the official birthstones for October, some sources list rose quartz as an additional birthstone for the month of October. Known for its soft pink color, rose quartz is often associated with love, compassion, and self-love. It is also said to open the heart chakra, promote self-love, and enhance relationships with others. It is suitable for everyday wear with a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. It offers a nurturing energy that can complement the qualities of Opal and Tourmaline, making it an alternative to the traditional October birthstones for those seeking to connect with the energies of the heart and emotions.

How to Buy Opal or Tourmaline Jewelry

When buying opal or tourmaline jewelry, you should do some research first. Here are some important factors to consider:

1. Identify your preferences: whether opal or tourmaline, both come in shades of color, white, pink, blue, green, orange, and more. Pick a color you like. Another thing you should identify is their' symbolic meanings. You can check the symbolism mentioned above in this article.
2. Consider quality: Look for high-quality gemstones that have vivid colors, clarity, invisible flaws, and good cuts.
3. Choose a setting: Decide on a metal setting (such as gold, silver, or platinum) and any additional gemstone accents that complement the gemstone's color.
4. Shop from reputable jeweler: Purchase opal or tourmaline jewelry from reputable sellers, such as Juyoyo. At Juyoyo, the opal, tourmaline, or rose quartz gemstones are authentic and affordable! We also offer free shipping and customization services!
5. Set a budget: Determine how much you want to spend and adjust your expectations accordingly.

FAQs about Opal & Tourmaline

What Is The Birthstone for October?

Opal and Tourmaline are the birthstones for October. However, some sources list three birthstones in October - Opal, Tourmaline, and Rose Quartz.

What Is The Zodiac Sign for October?

The zodiac signs for October are Libra (September 23 to October 22) and Scorpio (October 23 to November 21).

Opal vs. Tourmaline, Which Is The Best Birthstone for October?

The "best" birthstone for October is a matter of personal preference. Both opal and tourmaline offer unique beauty, symbolism, and properties. Here are some key comparisons to consider:

• Tourmaline is harder than opal with a Mohs scale rating of 7 - 7.5.
• Opal is known for its play of color, and Tourmaline is a versatile choice in a wide range of colors.
• Opal is more affordable than Tourmaline, especially for larger or higher-quality stones.

What Jewelry Is Suitable for October Birthstones?

When it comes to choosing jewelry for October birthstone, there are various options, including October birthstone ring, October birthstone necklace, October birthstone bracelet, etc.

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