October - Opal and Tourmaline
Those born in October enjoy two spectacular birthstones to commemorate their birthdays – Opal and Tourmaline. Both October birthstones have endless color combinations and beautiful coloring characteristics.
(Tourmaline description is listed on the Gemstones History and Properties page)
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​ANNIVERSARY:
The Opal gemstone is known to be given on the 14th marriage anniversary.
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​OPAL ATTRIBUTES:
Strengthen the sight, Heal diseases of the eyes, Invoke great luck
​HISTORY:
The name "opal" comes from the Sanskrit word upala, meaning precious stone. In Indian mythology, the virgin Goddess of the Rainbow was turned into an opal by the Mother Goddess because she was being chased by suitors Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. Ancient Greeks thought the stone could give people the gift of prophecy and protected them from disease. During Roman times, the Latin word opalus came into use.
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​GEOLOGICAL PROPERTIES:
Opals come in three natural varieties: opalescent precious opal, fire opal (yellow to red-orange) and the generally opaque common opal. Natural opals are non-crystalline, hydrated silicon dioxide gemstones that contain up to 30% water. It's possible for opals to dry out and crack, and they are relatively soft, fragile gemstones. Opals are found in the veins and cavities of igneous or sedimentary rock. The best quality opals are found in Australia, but the gemstone is also found in Brazil, Mexico, Czech Republic, Slovakia, southern Africa, and Nevada of the United States.
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​METAPHYSICAL PROPERTIES:
While some people believe it is unlucky for people not born in October to wear opal, the gemstone has actually long been valued as a stone of luck and magic. Opal is also an alternative birthstone for April babies. It is said that precious opal, with its display of fire, can spark creativity, and that the "dance" of its fire can help people enjoy their lives. The light-colored gemstones have long been associated with helping people become less visible to others and also in improving eyesight. The gemstone has been associated with the sacral chakra, imbalances of which can cause problems with addictions. Some people believe that opal can help moderate and harmonize sexual desires. European cultures have long believed opals are a symbol of hope, purity, and truth.
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​Note: All properties listed have been collected from various sources. This information is not meant to treat medical conditions. You should always follow the advice of medical professionals per their diagnoses. Tracey’s Treasures LLC does not guarantee the validity of any of the information collected.