The October birthstones are tourmaline and opal. Tourmaline comes in a variety of colors like red, green, pink, blue, yellow, brown, black, and more. The name “tourmaline” comes from the Sinhalese word “turmali” which means “mixed gems” referring to its variety of colors. Opals have a “play-of-color” – flashes of different colors like red, green, blue, and yellow. The October birthstones are fitting for Fall, as the changing leaves display a mix of vibrant colors.
History and Folklore
Tourmalines have been treasured as gemstones for centuries. Ancient Egyptian jewelers used them in their creations over 3,500 years ago. In the 18th and 19th centuries, jewelers appreciated tourmaline’s ability to create any color which led it to be known as the “gemstone of the rainbow”.
Opals have been mined in Europe for over 4,000 years. In ancient times, opal was seen as a symbol of hope and purity. It was also known for its protective powers and associated with love and passion. Ancient Romans gave opal gemstones as gifts to bring good luck.
Tourmaline Properties and Colors
Tourmaline has a hardness of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable gemstone suitable for jewelry. Its rich mix of colors comes from traces of iron, magnesium, lithium, sodium, aluminum, chromium, copper, and other elements. The different variations of tourmaline include:
- Pink tourmaline – Also known as rubellite, it ranges from light pink to deep red pink. Manganese causes its pink tones.
- Green tourmaline – Varies from light pastel green to dark forest greens. Its color comes from iron.
- Blue tourmaline – Called indicolite, it has rich hues from light sky blue to deep blue. Its color comes from iron.
- Red and brown tourmaline – Trace amounts of iron create these deeper warm tones.
- Watermelon tourmaline – Has pink cores surrounded by green rims to resemble its fruit namesake.
- Multicolor tourmaline – Displays multiple colors in one stone.
- Black tourmaline – The most common form, it has the darkest black color.
Some tourmalines display more than one color in a single stone, such as watermelon tourmaline and multicolor tourmaline. The mix of hues in one gem symbolizes the diversity of October’s fall season.
Opal Properties and Types
Opal has a lower hardness of 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. While it is softer than many gems, opals are still suitable for jewelry if worn carefully. Opals are composed of silicon dioxide and water. The water content causes opals to be sensitive to heat, harsh chemicals, and sudden impacts. When cared for properly, opals are quite durable. The “play-of-color” in opals comes from tiny silica spheres that diffract light. There are different varieties of opal:
- White opal – Most common type with light body tone and colorful flashes against the white.
- Black opal – Has a dark gray to black body color that contrasts with vivid flashes of color.
- Fire opal – Transparent to translucent opal with warm body tones of yellow, orange, or red.
- Boulder opal – Formed within ironstone boulders, leaving an opal layer against the host rock.
The diversity of opal types represents how October marks the changeover from summer to fall. Chilly weather creeps in but warm sunny days still emerge at times.
Where They Are Found
Tourmalines are mined from pegmatites and fractures in igneous and metamorphic rocks around the world. Major sources include:
- Brazil – Minas Gerais is a leading source, especially for pink, red, green, and multicolor tourmaline.
- Africa – Countries like Tanzania, Nigeria, Mozambique, Madagascar, and Namibia.
- Afghanistan – Historically an important source, especially for red and pink rubellite.
- United States – California and Maine have produced tourmaline gems.
Opals are mined in regions including:
- Australia – Produces over 90% of the world’s opal. Important fields exist in Lightning Ridge and Coober Pedy.
- Mexico – An increasing source of black opal, fire opal, and opalized fossil shells.
- United States – Precious opal found in Idaho and Nevada.
- Ethiopia – Emerging source of stunning black opal.
Jewelry Uses
The October birthstones can be set in all types of jewelry. Here are some of the most popular ways that tourmalines and opals are set into jewelry designs:
| Tourmaline | Opal |
|---|---|
| Tourmaline engagement rings and anniversary bands | Opal rings including cocktail rings |
| Tourmaline tennis bracelets | Opal bracelets |
| Tourmaline necklaces and pendants | Opal necklaces and pendants |
| Tourmaline drop earrings | Opal stud earrings |
| Multicolor tourmaline cocktail rings | Black opal cabochon rings |
October babies are lucky to have two beautiful birthstones to choose from. Tourmalines and opals complement both casual daily wear and elegant evening looks. Their mix of colors fit nicely with fall fashion trends.
How to Care for Tourmaline Jewelry
Here are some tips for keeping tourmaline jewelry looking its best:
- Clean tourmalines with warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are usually safe for tourmalines.
- Always remove tourmaline jewelry before exercising, cleaning, gardening, and doing dishes.
- Store tourmalines separately from other gems to prevent scratches.
- Consider having tourmalines professionally cleaned by a jeweler once a year.
With occasional cleaning and cautious wear, tourmaline jewelry will retain its vibrant colors for many years of enjoyment.
How to Care for Opal Jewelry
Special care is needed for opal jewelry due to opals’ delicate nature:
- Clean gently with a soft cloth dampened with water only.
- Avoid exposing opals to chemicals, heat, and sudden impacts.
- Take opals off before physical activities and chores.
- Store opals separately in a soft fabric pouch or box.
- Consider having opals professionally cleaned and inspected each year.
With extra care, opal jewelry can stay stunning for decades. However, it is important to avoid damage from bumps, heat, and harsh chemicals that could fracture opals.
Costs of October Birthstones
Like most gemstones, tourmalines and opals vary in price depending on factors like carat weight, quality, color intensity, and source. Here are some typical price ranges:
| Type | Price Range per Carat |
|---|---|
| Pink tourmaline | $100 – $500 |
| Green tourmaline | $100 – $300 |
| Multicolor tourmaline | $150 – $600 |
| Black tourmaline | $50 – $150 |
| White opal | $30 – $100 |
| Black opal | $100 – $15,000+ |
| Fire opal | $50 – $500 |
Fine quality opals and tourmalines over one carat can run into the thousands. However, small stones still make beautiful birthstone jewelry at more modest budgets.
Are They Ethical and Eco-Friendly?
Ethical and eco-friendly mining practices are important factors for consumers to consider. Here is some information on responsible sourcing of October birthstones:
- Tourmaline – Some mines use dangerous practices. Opt for stones from Brazil, Africa, or USA with responsible mining certification.
- Opal – Australian opals follow strong labor laws. Support Indigenous Australian opal miners for fair wages and sustainable practices.
Always ask jewelers about their suppliers and certification institutes like the Responsible Jewellery Council. This ensures your October birthstone purchase aligns with your personal values.
Are They Astrologically Aligned?
In astrology, tourmaline and opal are both associated with Libra’s air element and connected to balance, wisdom, relationships, and beauty. Here are some key traits of the October birthstones:
- Bring self-confidence and reduce stress
- Promote clear communication
- Reveal truths and provide insight
- Invoke creative thinking
- Attract positive relationships
- Encourage diplomacy and balance
Their astrological powers resonate with Libra personalities. Yet anyone can benefit from tourmaline and opal’s astrological properties by wearing them in jewelry or placing them in the home.
Conclusion
Tourmaline and opal make the perfect pair as October’s official birthstones. Their dazzling mix of colors represents Fall’s spirit. Tourmaline’s durability matches Libra’s active lifestyle. Opal aligns with Libra’s appreciation for beauty. Those born in October are blessed to have these marvelous gems as their birthstones. The variety of tourmalines and opals means those with October birthdays can find their perfect match.
