October is unique among the calendar months, boasting not one, but two recognized birthstones: opal and tourmaline. This dual designation reflects a fascinating history of evolving traditions within the gem trade and a celebration of the diverse beauty these stones offer. Both gems present a dazzling array of colors and optical phenomena, making them meaningful and popular choices for those born in the tenth month. While opal holds the distinction as the traditional October birthstone, pink tourmaline has gained prominence as a modern alternative, offering a wider spectrum of choices for jewelry enthusiasts.
History and Lore
The story of October’s birthstones is one of shifting perceptions and evolving standards. Originally, opal was the sole recognized birthstone for October, a tradition formalized in earlier gemological literature. The name “opal” itself has a rich linguistic history, originating from the Sanskrit word upala, meaning “precious stone,” which was later adopted into Latin as opalus. Ancient civilizations attributed various powers and meanings to opal. Ancient Greeks believed the stone bestowed the gift of prophecy and offered protection from disease. Europeans long considered opal a symbol of purity, hope, and truth, even believing it embodied the virtues of all colored stones. Bedouins held the belief that opals contained lightning and fell to earth during thunderstorms.
However, a superstition surrounding opal emerged in the 19th century, suggesting it brought bad luck to those for whom it wasn’t a birthstone. This belief is often attributed to Sir Walter Scott’s novel Anne of Geierstein (1831), where an opal’s changing colors mirrored the moods of a character, ultimately fading with her death. This narrative, coupled with the fact that opals can sometimes deteriorate and lose their vibrant play-of-color, contributed to the negative association.
The landscape of birthstone designations changed in 1912 when the National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America) revised the official list, allowing for alternate gems for months with either rare or misunderstood classic stones. Tourmaline, already appreciated for its diverse color palette, was subsequently added as a secondary birthstone for October. Today, both opal and tourmaline share the spotlight, providing October-born individuals with a choice between the shifting fire of opal and the saturated crystallinity of tourmaline.
Geological Formation and Sources
The origins of opal and tourmaline are distinct, reflecting their differing geological formations. Opal is formed from gel-like silica (SiO2) as it passes through various phases on its way to becoming stable crystalline quartz. This process typically occurs in sedimentary environments, often within fissures and cavities of rocks. While the sources of the first opals brought to the Western world were in India, specific details regarding current major mining locations are not provided in the available sources.
Tourmaline, on the other hand, forms in distinctive prism-like crystals with long hexagonal structures. Most tourmalines found in jewelry consist primarily of the mineral elbaite. The sources indicate a historical connection to California, where Empress Dowager Tzu-Hsi of China purchased nearly the entire production of pink tourmaline in the late 19th century. She was so enamored with the gem that she was buried with a pink tourmaline pillow, and the remainder of her collection was crafted into exquisite carvings. The sources do not provide a comprehensive list of current mining locations for tourmaline.
Gemological Properties
Opal is particularly valued for its “play-of-color,” a shifting display of rainbow hues. This phenomenon is what sets opal apart and inspires comparisons to fireworks, galaxies, and volcanoes. However, it’s important to note that opals are relatively unstable and can deteriorate over time, losing their color and becoming chalky.
Pink tourmaline, the modern October birthstone, exhibits a striking pink hue with variations throughout the color spectrum. What distinguishes tourmaline is its ability to occur in a wide range of colors, with some crystals even displaying multiple colors – known as watermelon tourmaline. Tourmaline crystals are composed primarily of elbaite, contributing to their remarkable beauty when exposed to light. The sources do not provide specific details regarding the hardness, refractive index, or chemical formula of either opal or tourmaline.
A comparative table of properties, based on the available information, is difficult to construct due to the limited data provided in the sources. However, the key distinguishing feature is the play-of-color in opal and the diverse color range in tourmaline.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, both opal and tourmaline have been imbued with symbolic meanings. As previously mentioned, opal was historically associated with purity, hope, and truth, and believed to embody the virtues of all colored stones. The shifting colors of opal were seen as reflective of moods and emotions.
Tourmaline’s many colors have been linked to artistic inspiration. The rich colors and symbolism of both gems contribute to their appeal as meaningful gifts. The sources suggest that October symbolizes fulfillment, reaping what one has sown, and the life cycle, potentially aligning with the transformative qualities associated with both birthstones.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide specific care and cleaning instructions for either opal or tourmaline. However, given opal’s relative instability and tendency to deteriorate, gentle handling and protection from harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures are advisable. Further research into the specific care requirements of each gem is recommended.
Conclusion
October’s birthstones, opal and tourmaline, represent a fascinating blend of history, lore, and gemological beauty. While opal holds the traditional significance, tourmaline’s rise as a modern alternative reflects the evolving preferences and expanding knowledge within the gemological world. Both stones offer a captivating array of colors and symbolic meanings, making them cherished choices for those born in the tenth month. The dual designation of October’s birthstones provides a unique opportunity to celebrate the diversity and wonder of the natural world.