October is a unique month in the world of birthstones, celebrated with not one, but two captivating gemstones: opal and tourmaline. Both stones offer a dazzling array of colors and possess a rich history, making them cherished gifts for those born in the tenth month. This article will delve into the origins, properties, symbolism, and lore surrounding these enchanting October birthstones.
History and Lore
The story of opal stretches back millennia. Its name originates from the Sanskrit word upala, meaning “precious stone,” later evolving through Greek (opallios, meaning “to see a change of color”) and Roman (opalus) iterations. Ancient Romans held opal in high esteem, associating it with hope and purity. Ancient Greeks believed the gem bestowed the gift of prophecy and offered protection from disease. Europeans, for centuries, considered opal a symbol of purity, hope, and truth, believing it embodied the virtues of all colored stones. Bedouin tribes once attributed opal’s vibrant flashes to captured lightning, believing the stones fell from the sky during thunderstorms.
Tourmaline’s history is equally fascinating, though its recognition as a birthstone is more recent. The name “tourmaline” derives from the Sinhalese word turmali, meaning “mixed colored stones,” a fitting description given the gem’s extraordinary color diversity. While opal boasts a long-standing tradition as a birthstone, tourmaline was introduced later as a modern alternative. Some sources indicate that all varieties of tourmaline are considered the alternative birthstone, while others specifically highlight pink tourmaline. Tourmaline is also associated with the eighth wedding anniversary, while opal is traditionally given to celebrate the fourteenth.
Geological Formation and Sources
The sources for these gemstones are geographically diverse. Opal is found in various locations around the world, though specific details regarding major mining regions are not provided in the available sources. Tourmaline, however, is primarily sourced from Africa – specifically Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia, and Tanzania – and Brazil, with smaller deposits found elsewhere. The formation of opal is unique; it is a hardened silica gel and can even replace organic material over millennia, resulting in “opalized fossils” or “opalized wood.”
Gemological Properties
Both opal and tourmaline exhibit distinct gemological properties. Opal is composed of hydrated silica, while tourmaline is a complex borosilicate mineral. A key characteristic of opal is its “play-of-color,” a mesmerizing display of shifting rainbow hues caused by the diffraction of light within its internal structure. No two opals are exactly alike due to this unique phenomenon. Tourmaline, conversely, is celebrated for its vast range of colors, from delicate pinks and greens to bold blues and even the striking “watermelon” variety, featuring pink and green zones.
The Mohs hardness scale provides a measure of a gemstone’s resistance to scratching. Opal registers between 5.5 and 6.5 on this scale, making it relatively softer and more susceptible to damage than tourmaline, which scores between 7 and 7.5. This difference in hardness impacts the care and maintenance required for each stone, as discussed later. Opal displays a multitude of colors, including white, pink, blue, red, orange, yellow, green, purple, and black. Tourmaline, as its name suggests, occurs in virtually all colors, although black (known as schorl) is the most common.
Here's a table summarizing the key gemological properties:
| Property | Opal | Tourmaline |
|---|---|---|
| Mineral | Hydrated Silica | Complex Borosilicate |
| Color | Multicolored | Virtually All Colors |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 5.5 - 6.5 | 7 - 7.5 |
| Play-of-Color | Present | Absent |
| Common Colors | White, Pink, Black | Black, Pink, Green |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, both opal and tourmaline have been imbued with symbolic meaning. Opal is associated with imagination, fidelity, creativity, innocence, and hope. Its shifting colors have inspired comparisons to fireworks, galaxies, and volcanoes, reflecting its dynamic and captivating nature. Tourmaline, with its diverse color palette, is believed to promote emotional balance, passion, and motivation. Ancient beliefs suggest that opals held protective powers, while tourmaline was thought to possess healing properties.
The association of these stones with specific zodiac signs further enhances their symbolic significance. Opal is linked to Pisces, Scorpio, Libra, and Cancer, while tourmaline is often associated with Libra and Scorpio. October’s birth flowers, marigold and cosmos, complement the gemstones’ symbolism, representing warmth, cheerfulness, and order.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its lower hardness, opal requires careful handling and cleaning. It is more susceptible to scratches and damage than tourmaline. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and extreme temperature changes. Cleaning opal jewelry can be done gently with a soft cloth and lukewarm soapy water.
Tourmaline, being harder and more durable, is less prone to damage. It can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. However, it’s still advisable to avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners. Regular cleaning will help maintain the brilliance and luster of both gemstones.
Conclusion
Opal and tourmaline, the captivating birthstones of October, represent a harmonious blend of history, beauty, and symbolism. Opal, with its ancient origins and mesmerizing play-of-color, embodies hope, purity, and imagination. Tourmaline, with its remarkable color diversity and modern appeal, symbolizes emotional balance and creativity. Together, these gemstones encapsulate the spirit of October – a season of transformation, deep thought, and enduring brilliance. They remain cherished gifts for those born in this enchanting month, and continue to captivate gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry lovers alike.