October possesses the unique distinction of being represented by two recognized birthstones: opal and pink tourmaline. While opal historically held sole claim to the month, the addition of pink tourmaline in the early 20th century has created a vibrant duality, offering those born in October a choice between a gemstone famed for its iridescent play-of-color and one celebrated for its compassionate energy. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and cultural significance of both opal and pink tourmaline, exploring their individual characteristics and shared symbolism as October birthstones.
A History of Shared Recognition
For many years, opal was the sole birthstone associated with October. Formalized lists of birthstones began to emerge in the 19th century, with Tiffany & Co. publishing a pamphlet of “Gregorian Birthstone Poems” in 1870 that featured opal for October. However, the standardization of birthstones didn’t occur until 1912, when the National Association of Jewelers (now Jewellers of America) officially designated opal as the primary October birthstone, while simultaneously introducing tourmaline as an alternative. This decision was influenced by the desire to provide options for months with gemstones that were either rare or subject to misunderstanding.
Later, in 1950s, the Jewellery Industry Council of America specifically named pink tourmaline as the alternative to opal. More recently, the 2016 American list recognizes both opal and pink tourmaline equally as October birthstones, while the 2013 UK list continues to recognize only opal. This evolution reflects a growing appreciation for the diverse beauty and symbolism offered by both gems.
Opal: Origins and Lore
The origins of opal are steeped in mythology and folklore. Ancient Greeks believed opals were formed from the tears of joy shed by Zeus after defeating the Titans. Indigenous Australian traditions offer several origin stories, one involving the Rainbow Serpent, whose iridescent scales fell to earth as opals, and another describing the gems emerging where the feet of an ancestral Creator spirit touched the ground while traveling by rainbow.
Historically, opals were highly prized by the Romans, who referred to them as cupid paederos, meaning “child as beautiful as love.” Despite periods of superstition in the 19th century, where opals were falsely believed to be cursed unless worn by those born in October, many cultures, including the Chinese, have long considered opals to be symbols of good luck.
Tourmaline: A Rainbow’s Descent
Tourmaline’s history is equally captivating, though its association with October is more recent. Egyptian beliefs attribute tourmaline’s diverse colors to its journey down a rainbow from the sun to earth. The name “tourmaline” itself is derived from the Sinhalese word toramalli, meaning “finger of color,” a testament to the gem’s remarkable chromatic range.
While pink tourmaline is the designated alternative October birthstone, tourmaline encompasses a spectrum of colors, each believed to possess unique properties. Pink tourmaline, in particular, is associated with compassion, love, and reconciliation, often referred to as the “Stone of Reconciliation.”
Geological Formation and Sources
Opal is a hydrated amorphous form of silica, meaning it lacks a defined crystalline structure. It forms in sedimentary environments, typically within cracks and voids in rocks, where silica-rich solutions deposit layers of microscopic silica spheres. Australia is the world’s primary source of opal, producing over 90% of the global supply, with significant deposits in South Australia and New South Wales. Other notable sources include Ethiopia, Mexico, and the United States.
Tourmaline, on the other hand, is a crystalline borosilicate mineral. It forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks, often in pegmatites, which are coarse-grained igneous rocks. Pink tourmaline is found in various locations worldwide, including Brazil, Madagascar, Nigeria, and the United States. The specific geological conditions and trace elements present during formation determine the color and quality of the tourmaline.
Gemological Properties: A Comparative Overview
| Property | Opal | Pink Tourmaline |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | SiO₂·nH₂O | Complex borosilicate (variable) |
| Crystal System | Amorphous | Trigonal |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 5.5 – 6.5 | 7 – 7.5 |
| Specific Gravity | 1.98 – 2.15 | 3.05 – 3.25 |
| Refractive Index | 1.45 | 1.61 – 1.66 |
| Color | Variable; displays play-of-color | Pink, magenta, rose-red |
| Transparency | Typically translucent to opaque | Transparent to translucent |
Opal is renowned for its “play-of-color,” a mesmerizing display of iridescent hues caused by the diffraction of light through the microscopic silica spheres. This phenomenon is what sets opal apart from most other gemstones. Tourmaline, while lacking opal’s play-of-color, exhibits a vibrant and saturated color, often with excellent clarity. Its hardness makes it more durable and suitable for everyday wear than opal.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Both opal and pink tourmaline carry significant symbolic weight. Opal is associated with purity, hope, and perspective. It is believed to enhance creativity, inspire imagination, and promote emotional healing. Some believe opal can also aid in accessing intuition and psychic abilities.
Pink tourmaline, as its name suggests, is strongly linked to love, compassion, and emotional balance. It is considered a heart-centered stone, promoting friendship, forgiveness, and self-love. It is also believed to boost energy and smooth relationship troubles.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its relatively lower hardness, opal is more susceptible to scratches and damage than tourmaline. It should be handled with care and protected from impacts. Cleaning opal involves gentle washing with mild soap and warm water, avoiding harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners.
Pink tourmaline, with its higher hardness, is more durable and can withstand more rigorous cleaning. It can be cleaned with warm soapy water, a soft brush, and rinsed thoroughly. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for tourmaline, but caution should be exercised with stones that have been fracture-filled.
October’s Symbolic Resonance
The choice between opal and pink tourmaline as an October birthstone reflects the multifaceted nature of the month itself. October, originating from the Latin octo meaning “eight,” was originally the eighth month in the Roman calendar. Anglo-Saxons called it Winterfylleth, signifying the “winter full moon,” recognizing the transition into the colder months. Historically, October was also a time for Roman festivals like Mundus Patet, where the boundaries between the living and the dead blurred.
This symbolism of transition, reflection, and the interplay between light and darkness aligns well with both gemstones. Opal’s shifting play-of-color embodies the changing seasons, while pink tourmaline’s compassionate energy offers solace and balance during a time of year often associated with introspection.
Conclusion
Opal and pink tourmaline, as the birthstones of October, represent a captivating blend of history, geology, and symbolism. Opal, with its ancient lore and mesmerizing play-of-color, offers a connection to mythology and the ethereal realm. Pink tourmaline, with its compassionate energy and vibrant hue, embodies love, healing, and emotional balance. Together, they encapsulate the essence of October – a month of transition, reflection, and the enduring beauty of the natural world.