October is a month associated with change. The leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The days grow shorter and cooler weather sets in. October also brings a change to the traditional birthstone list, as it is the first month to have two designated gems associated with it: the tourmaline and the opal. But why does October have two different birthstones? The history and lore surrounding these stones provide the answer.
The History of Birthstones
The idea of birthstones – special gems associated with each month of the year – dates back thousands of years. Some sources trace it as far back as biblical times. The breastplate worn by the high priest Aaron was set with 12 different gems, each inscribed with the name of one of the tribes of Israel. These gems may have also corresponded to the signs of the zodiac and the months of the year.
Birthstones grew in popularity during the 18th and 19th centuries. Many sources published lists associating certain gems with months. The most widely accepted modern list of birthstones was produced by the American National Association of Jewelers in 1912. This list associated a single gem with each month. Initially, only the opal was designated as October’s birthstone. So when did the tourmaline get added?
History of Tourmaline as an October Birthstone
For centuries, red and pink tourmalines were the rarest and most desirable colors of this gem. These fiery gemstones were first brought to Europe by Dutch traders in the early 1700s. The glowing red stones were originally thought to be rubies. However, they were later recognized as a distinct mineral and became known as rubellite (little rubies).
During the Victorian Era, rubellite tourmalines became fashionable in jewelry. The combination of the vivid pink color and the affordability compared to ruby made it appealing. Jewelers also prized tourmalines because the dichroic gems refracted light differently when viewed from different angles.
In 1952, the Jewelry Industry Council of America expanded the modern birthstone list to include one additional gem for some months. The council designated tourmaline along with opal as the official birthstones for October.
History of Opal as October’s Birthstone
Opals have a much longer history of association with October. They were recognized as the month’s birthstone as far back as the 15th century. During the Middle Ages, people believed opals had magical powers and the ability to protect the wearer from harm. They were also associated with love and passion due to their bright flashes of color.
Opals were mined in Central Europe for centuries and treasured around the world. However, the discovery of opals in Australia in the mid-1800s made them more accessible. The huge quantities found sparked a popularity surge. During the Art Nouveau period, opal’s rainbow iridescence inspired jewelers like René Lalique.
Both the fiery orange-red shades of tourmaline and the colorful flashes of opal suit October’s autumn palette. Their shine and energy reflect October’s excitement of change. So the rich histories of both stones make them fitting birthstones for the tenth month.
October’s Two Birthstones: Tourmaline and Opal
So October has two different birthstone options: tourmaline and opal. Here is an overview of these two gems that share the month.
Tourmaline
- Natural mineral (crystalline silicate)
- Most common colors: pink, red, green, blue, brown
- Mohs hardness scale: 7 – 8
- Sources: Brazil, Africa, United States
- Significance: Love, friendship, passion
The tourmaline group includes several related gemstones with the same crystal structure but different chemical compositions. The fiery pink to red varieties known as rubellite are the most prized. Other popular types include green verdelite, blue indicolite, and watermelon tourmaline with pink and green bands.
Opal
- Natural mineraloid (hydrated silica)
- Most common colors: White, black, shades of blue, green, pink, yellow, orange, red
- Mohs hardness scale: 5.5 – 6.5
- Sources: Australia, Mexico, Brazil, Ethiopia
- Significance: Love, passion, creativity, innocence
Opals are known for their “play of color.” As light passes through the amorphous silica structure, it refracts into flashes of spectral color. No two opals are exactly alike in their color display. Common opal varieties are white, black, fire, and boulder. Australia produces around 95% of the world’s supply.
Jewelry Options for October’s Birthstones
October’s two birthstones offer diverse jewelry options. The table below summarizes some key characteristics.
| Birthstone | Durability | Color Range | Jewelry Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourmaline | Good | Pink, red, green, blue, brown, black, watermelon | Rings, pendants, bracelets, earrings |
| Opal | Delicate | White, black, shades of blue, green, pink, yellow, orange, red | Pendants, earrings, brooches, rings in protective settings |
Tourmaline is very versatile and appropriate for all types of jewelry. The hardness and durability make it ideal for rings and bracelets to stand up to daily wear. Opal requires more protective settings since it is softer and fragile. The play of color is best displayed in pendants, earrings, and brooches.
Caring for October’s Birthstones
Proper care is important for keeping October’s birthstones looking their best. Here are some tips:
Tourmaline
- Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush
- Ultrasonic or steam cleaning generally safe
- Avoid harsh chemicals and heat
- Store carefully to prevent scratches
Opal
- Clean gently with warm water and mild soap
- Store in soft cloth to prevent scratches
- Avoid chemicals, heat, and ultrasonic cleaning
- Rehydrate opal periodically by soaking in water
- Protect from sharp blows or pressure
Tourmaline is relatively resistant to damage. But opals require gentle care because they are fragile. Paying attention to these care tips will help October birthstones retain their beauty.
Shopping Tips for October Birthstones
Those looking to buy tourmaline or opal jewelry should keep these shopping tips in mind:
Tourmaline
- Look for clean, rich color without dark spots
- Inspect for cracks under magnification
- High clarity not essential like with transparent gems
- Ask about any treatments to improve color
Opal
- Choose opal colors you find most appealing
- Look for play of color that flashes multiple colors
- Avoid opals with crazing (fine cracks)
- Set in protective settings for durability
- Doublet or triplet opals more affordable
Shop from a reputable dealer who can answer questions about these unique October birthstones. Both offer uplifting color that suits the autumn season.
Meaning & Symbolism of October’s Birthstones
Opals and tourmalines carry rich symbolic meaning and legendary lore.
Tourmaline
- Called “gem of the rainbow” due to wide color range
- Reputed to inspire creativity
- Said to calm the mind and promote tranquility
- Believed to encourage friendship and understanding
- Pink tourmaline thought to attract love
Opal
- Called “gem of the gods” in ancient Rome
- Associated with hope, innocence, and purity
- Reputed to possess magical qualities
- Believed to help stimulate originality and creativity
- Said to be linked to love and passion
October’s two birthstones have rich cultural histories and unique natural beauty. They continue be prized in jewelry today. Their brilliance captures the changing colors of autumn. For those born in October, they are the perfect gems to symbolize this colorful and energizing time of year.
Conclusion
October is a transitional month marked by vibrant change. So it is fitting that October is the first month to have two designated birthstones: tourmaline and opal. The lively pink to red tourmaline joins the opal, which has long held October’s birthstone spot. The unique qualities and legendary folklore of these two gems make them an ideal match for people born under October’s autumn skies. Whether it is the flashing fire of tourmaline or the rainbow iridescence of opal, October babies can find a birthstone to call their own.