The opal, celebrated as the birthstone for October, is a gemstone renowned for its captivating “play-of-color”—a mesmerizing display of iridescent hues. Often associated with creativity, inspiration, and transformation, the opal holds a unique place in both the world of gemstones and the hearts of those born in its month. This article delves into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of this enchanting stone, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The opal’s history is steeped in lore and legend. While specific dates regarding its initial discovery are not detailed in the provided sources, its symbolic meaning has been recognized for centuries. Sources indicate the opal is considered a “soother of sadness & envy,” suggesting a historical belief in its emotional healing properties. The stone’s association with creativity and imagination is a recurring theme, and it is believed to possess various healing properties.
The modern practice of associating specific gemstones with birth months has solidified the opal’s position as the October birthstone, making it a meaningful gift symbolizing love and affection for those with October birthdays. The versatility of opal necklaces makes them suitable for any occasion, and combining opal with other gemstones like diamonds or pearls can create unique and eye-catching designs.
Geological Formation and Sources
The sources primarily identify Australia as a significant source of opals. Specifically, Australian opal is mentioned in connection with the 18-karat gold opal birthstone necklaces. The geological formation processes are not detailed within the provided materials. However, the emphasis on “natural gemstones” suggests that the opals used in jewelry are not synthetic, and each stone exhibits slight variations in color, contributing to its unique beauty.
Gemological Properties
The provided sources offer limited detailed gemological data. However, some properties can be gleaned. Opal is described as a relatively delicate gemstone, requiring careful handling to avoid chipping. The sources mention opal being set in various metals, including 18-karat yellow gold, 14ct Gold-Fill, 925 sterling silver, and 14k gold vermeil (with at least 2.5 microns of gold).
Pendant sizes are noted as approximately 3.5mm and 3mm. Chain lengths vary, with options including 16", 18", and adjustable lengths ranging from 42cm to 65cm (approximately 16.5 to 24.5 inches). Bracelet sizes are also adjustable, ranging from 16cm to 21cm (approximately 6.3 to 8.3 inches). Anklets are available in sizes S and M, corresponding to ankle circumferences of 22cm (8.8 inches) and 23.5cm (9.4 inches), respectively.
The defining characteristic of opal, its “play-of-color,” is repeatedly highlighted, emphasizing its visual appeal. The sources do not provide information on the opal’s chemical composition, hardness on the Mohs scale, refractive index, or other standard gemological metrics.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The opal is rich in symbolism. It represents inspiration, creativity, and confidence. Metaphysically, opal is said to spark imagination, enhance creativity, and inspire originality. Different sources attribute various benefits to the stone, including boosting mood, reducing stress, promoting success in relationships and careers, enhancing concentration, promoting mental clarity, and supporting prosperity and fulfillment of goals.
A table summarizing the meanings and benefits associated with various birthstones, including opal, is provided:
| Birthstone | Meaning | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Peridot (August) | Strength, happiness, and abundance | Boosting mood, reducing stress, promoting success |
| Sapphire (September) | Wisdom, loyalty, and nobility | Enhancing concentration, promoting mental clarity, supporting prosperity |
| Opal (October) | Inspiration, creativity, and confidence | Sparking imagination, enhancing creativity, inspiring originality |
| Citrine (November) | Joy, abundance, and energy | Happiness, success, personal empowerment, dispelling negative energy |
| Tanzanite (December) | Transformation, self-discovery, and insight | Spiritual growth, enhanced intuition, personal transformation |
Care and Cleaning
The sources indicate that opal is a relatively delicate gemstone and should be handled with care to avoid chipping. Specific cleaning instructions are not provided, but a source directs readers to “learn more about how to care for your SARAH & SEBASTIAN jewellery,” suggesting that general jewelry care guidelines apply. The durability of the setting material (gold, silver, etc.) is also emphasized, with quality materials like 925 sterling silver and 14k gold vermeil ensuring lasting radiance.
Craftsmanship and Retailers
Several retailers are mentioned in the provided sources, including Sarah & Sebastian, Ivy Laine Jewellery, Seoidín, Birthstone.com, Kristien Surya, and Karen’s Jewelers. Color Merchants is highlighted as a leading supplier of diamond and gemstone jewelry with over 25 years of experience. These retailers offer opal necklaces in various styles, including pendant necklaces, layered necklaces, and statement chokers.
Seoidín, an Irish company, emphasizes its handmade crochet designs incorporating precision-cut cubic zirconia alongside opal. Kristien Surya notes that each creation is handmade, resulting in slight variations in carat weight, stone quantities, and chain lengths.
Necklace and Ring Sizing
The sources include detailed sizing charts for necklaces, bracelets, and phalange rings. Necklace lengths are provided in both centimeters and inches, while bracelet sizes correlate wrist circumference to length. Ring sizes are given in US, China, EU, and UK standards, along with corresponding circumference and diameter measurements.
Conclusion
The opal, as the birthstone for October, is a gemstone of captivating beauty and rich symbolism. Its mesmerizing play-of-color, coupled with its associations with creativity, inspiration, and transformation, makes it a cherished stone for jewelry enthusiasts and a meaningful gift for those born in October. While the provided sources offer limited detailed gemological data, they highlight the opal’s delicate nature, its importance as a source of inspiration, and the craftsmanship involved in creating opal jewelry. The stone’s enduring appeal lies in its unique visual properties and the positive attributes it represents.