October boasts not one, but two recognized birthstones: the captivating opal and the richly colored tourmaline. These gemstones, steeped in history and symbolism, offer a diverse range of beauty and meaning for those born in the tenth month of the year. While opal has a long-standing association with October, tourmaline was added to the list in 1952 to provide a wider selection and address concerns about opal’s perceived fragility and femininity. Both stones possess unique characteristics that have captivated cultures for centuries.
History and Lore
The history of opal stretches back to ancient times. Its origins are believed to lie in India, where it was known as Upala, meaning “precious stone.” The Romans referred to it as opalus, and the gem was highly prized for its remarkable play-of-colour. Ancient Greeks believed opal bestowed the power of prophecy and protected against disease. In Europe, opal became associated with purity, hope, and truth, and was considered to contain the virtues of all coloured stones. Bedouins held the belief that opal contained lightning and originated from the sky during thunderstorms.
Tourmaline’s story is equally fascinating, though its recognition as a distinct gem species took longer. For centuries, tourmalines were often mistaken for other gemstones due to their wide array of colours. A green tourmaline discovered in Brazil by a Spanish conquistador in the 1500s was initially believed to be an emerald. It wasn’t until the 1800s that mineralogists definitively classified tourmaline as a unique mineral. The name “tourmaline” itself derives from the Sinhalese word toramalli, meaning “stone with mixed colours,” a fitting description given the gem’s incredible colour range. A notable example of mistaken identity is the “Caesar’s Ruby” in the Russian crown jewels, which is, in fact, a red tourmaline (rubellite).
Geological Formation and Sources
The sources for both opal and tourmaline are geographically diverse. While the provided sources do not detail specific mining locations for opal beyond its initial import into the West from India, it is known for its significant deposits in Australia. Tourmaline, on the other hand, is found in numerous locations worldwide. Brazil was a key source, with discoveries dating back to the 1500s. Dutch traders reportedly discovered tourmaline off the West Coast of Italy in the late 1600s or early 1700s, though the gem had been known for centuries prior.
Gemological Properties
Opal is renowned for its unique optical phenomenon known as “play-of-colour,” a shifting kaleidoscope of rainbow shades. This effect is caused by the diffraction of light as it passes through microscopic silica spheres within the gem. The appearance of opal is also influenced by the amount of water it contains, making it a relatively soft and fragile stone.
Tourmaline, in contrast, is notable for its exceptional colour variety. It is one of the few gems found in almost every colour imaginable, ranging from blues and reds to greens and even multicoloured varieties. Pink tourmaline, a particularly favoured October birthstone, can exhibit clarity comparable to diamonds. The gem’s colour is influenced by trace elements present during its formation. Tourmaline also possesses piezoelectric properties, meaning it generates an electric charge when heated – a characteristic valued by alchemists who believed it was related to the philosopher’s stone.
Here's a table summarizing key properties:
| Property | Opal | Tourmaline |
|---|---|---|
| Play-of-Colour | Present, defining characteristic | Absent |
| Hardness | Relatively soft | Generally harder than opal |
| Composition | Hydrated silica | Complex borosilicate |
| Colour Range | Variable, with play-of-colour | Extremely diverse, almost all colours |
| Piezoelectric | Absent | Present |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, both opal and tourmaline have been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Opal, with its shifting colours, has been linked to hope, purity, and truth. However, a superstitious belief persists that wearing opal brings bad luck to those not born in October.
Tourmaline’s symbolism varies depending on its colour. Pink tourmaline is associated with love and emotional healing, directly relating to one’s heart chakra. Black tourmaline is believed to offer protection from negativity and enhance self-confidence. Green tourmaline is thought to promote courage, strength, and stamina. Ancient mystics believed tourmaline could inspire artistic expression, reflecting its diverse and inspiring colour palette.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its relatively soft nature and water content, opal requires careful handling and cleaning. It is susceptible to scratching and can be damaged by sudden temperature changes. Gentle cleaning with a soft cloth and lukewarm soapy water is recommended. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners.
Tourmaline is generally more durable than opal, but still requires care. It can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, especially for tourmalines with fractures or inclusions.
The Standardization of Birthstones
The modern concept of assigning specific birthstones to each month gained traction in 1952 when the National Association of Jewellers created a standardized list. This list has been modified over time to reflect changing styles and the availability of gemstones. The addition of tourmaline as an October birthstone was partly driven by a desire to offer a more durable and less “feminine” alternative to opal, addressing concerns raised by some consumers. Today, both opal and pink tourmaline are widely recognized as the birthstones for October.
Conclusion
Opal and tourmaline represent the vibrant beauty and diverse symbolism of October. From the ancient lore surrounding opal’s play-of-colour to the rich history and varied hues of tourmaline, these gemstones offer a captivating connection to the month of October and the individuals born within it. Whether chosen for their aesthetic appeal, their historical significance, or their perceived metaphysical properties, opal and tourmaline continue to be cherished gemstones for generations to come.