Throughout history, the opal has captivated observers with its unique play of color and has been imbued with a rich tapestry of meaning, superstition, and cultural significance. As the birthstone for October, this gem holds a special place in folklore and modern jewelry alike. This article will explore the history, origins, symbolism, and enduring appeal of the opal, drawing upon historical accounts and gemological observations.
History and Lore
The opal’s history is steeped in legend and fascination. As early as Roman times, the gem was highly prized. The Roman scholar Pliny the Elder eloquently described the opal’s beauty, noting its ability to display “a softer fire than the ruby, the brilliant purple of the amethyst, and the sea green of the emerald – all shining together in incredible union.” The Romans considered opals symbols of hope and purity, ranking them second only to emeralds in value. Ancient Greeks believed opals granted the gift of prophecy. The name “opal” itself is derived from the Greek word “opalus,” meaning “to see a change in color,” a direct reference to the gem’s most defining characteristic.
Throughout various cultures, opals were thought to bring good fortune, good health, and foresight. The gem has been featured in the works of renowned authors and playwrights, including Shakespeare, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Mark Twain, John Steinbeck, and Oscar Wilde, further cementing its place in cultural consciousness. In more recent times, the opal experienced a period of negative association, fueled by a fictional portrayal in Sir Walter Scott’s 1829 novel, “Anne of Geierstein,” which linked the gem to bad luck. However, this superstition has largely been forgotten, and opals are once again celebrated for their beauty and individuality.
Gemological Properties
While the provided sources do not detail the specific chemical composition or detailed gemological properties of opals, they do highlight the gem’s defining characteristic: its play of color. This phenomenon, resulting from the diffraction of light within the stone’s microscopic structure, creates a mesmerizing display of shifting hues. The sources emphasize that no two opals are alike, contributing to their unique allure.
Superstitions and Symbolism
The opal is perhaps uniquely associated with superstition. The belief that opals bring bad luck to those not born in October is a well-documented phenomenon, likely stemming from a combination of the gem’s mystical power, literary depictions, and competition within the gem trade. However, this superstition is largely a product of fiction and has diminished in modern times.
Conversely, opals are also associated with positive symbolism. They are considered a representation of foresight, good fortune, hope, purity, and wisdom. Various beliefs attribute specific powers to the opal, including the ability to ward off evil, enhance psychic abilities, and protect sailors from ocean dangers. Different colored opals were also believed to have specific benefits; for example, ruby was thought to attract good luck and protect against evil and the plague.
Opals in Modern Jewelry and Fashion
Despite past superstitions, opals have experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years. High-end fashion designers, such as Victoire de Castellane of Dior Jouaillerie, have embraced the opal for its versatility, striking appearance, and the allure of its individuality. De Castellane describes the opal as a “very poetic stone” and sees within it representations of the earth, ocean, and stars.
The opal’s comeback is evident in its increasing presence in earrings, necklaces, and, notably, engagement rings. Style icon Taylor Swift’s choice to wear opal earrings to the 2020 Golden Globe awards further solidified the gem’s fashionable status. Opals are increasingly sought after by both antique and modern jewelry collectors, making them ideal gems for birthstone jewelry.
Other November Birthstones: Citrine and Topaz
While the focus of this article is on the opal as an October birthstone, it is worth noting that November is represented by two birthstones: citrine and topaz. Citrine is described as the foremost birthstone of manifestation, thoughts, and prosperity, often referred to as the “merchant’s stone” or “money stone” due to the belief that it brings financial success. It possesses a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale and is found in regions like the United States, South Africa, Russia, Peru, and Mexico, displaying colors ranging from orangey-brown to deep orange and yellowish-red.
Topaz, traditionally representing friendship, comes in a wide range of colors including blue, brown, green, pink, orange, grey, yellow, and reddish-pink. It has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. Before the 20th century, all yellow gems were often referred to as topaz, but later classifications distinguished them as separate gemstones.
Conclusion
The opal, with its captivating play of color and rich history, remains a gemstone of enduring fascination. From its ancient origins as a symbol of hope and purity to its modern resurgence in fashion and jewelry, the opal continues to inspire and enchant. While once burdened by superstition, the opal has reclaimed its position as a beloved and highly sought-after gem, representing not bad luck, but rather a vibrant and unique expression of nature’s artistry. The opal’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture the imagination and remind us of the beauty and mystery that exists within the natural world.