Why is Opal the Birthstone for October?

Why is Opal the Birthstone for October?

Opal ring from Etsy
Source: Etsy.com

 

Birthstones are gemstones chosen to accompany a birth month. This practice dates back to ancient times where people believed that gemstones have the power to bring luck and prosperity. For this month of October, two different stones are considered to be its birthstones -- Tourmaline and Opal. However, Opal is more popular than Tourmaline, and that’s what we're going to highlight this week.

Opal is known as “Queen of Gems," because of its milky white color with flashes of yellow, red, green, blue, and orange. In fact, its name is derived from the Greek word Opalus, which means to “see a change of color.” This characteristic is what makes it unique from all the other gemstones.

polished opal stone
Source: En.wikipedia.org

 

So what is the Queen of Gems made of? According to BirthstoneZodiac.com, this gemstone is "a form of non-crystalline silica gel." Its internal structure is what makes it diffract light, flashing an array of colors. These gems are mostly found in Australia.

During early times, The Romans considered opals as precious gems and were a symbol used for hope and purity. They believed that the stone brings good luck, and was often used as a talisman. It was also thought to have healing properties that can cure headaches and eye infections. By medieval times, it was used as necklaces by most blonde maidens, believing that the stone can prevent their hair from fading or darkening. There was also a time where people thought that opals can make one invisible if he wishes to, giving it the name “Patronus forum” or “patron of the thieves.”

But why was it chosen as the birthstone for October? Well, before its modern gemology, Opal was always considered as the zodiac stone for Libra, which falls in the month of October. It was also used as the October gemstone in the Ayurvedic or old Indian calendar. It is also called as a Wish Stone and is used to promote love and happiness by granting wishes.

Opal earrings from Eternal Sparkles

Opal, up to this day, continues to amaze us. Its dazzling display of colors makes it the perfect choice for women who love wearing fashion jewelry adorned by a unique gemstone that is truly one of a kind.

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