October boasts two recognized birthstones: opal and pink tourmaline. Both gems offer a stunning array of colors and unique characteristics, 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 the modern alternative. This article will explore the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and symbolism associated with both of these captivating gemstones.
History and Lore
The story of opal traces back to ancient India, where it was known as upala, meaning “precious stone.” This term evolved into opalus in ancient Rome. Throughout history, opal has been imbued with diverse beliefs and symbolism. Ancient Bedouins believed opals contained lightning and originated from the sky during thunderstorms. The ancient Greeks associated the gem with the gift of prophecy and protection from disease. In Europe, opal became a symbol of purity, hope, and truth, and was once thought to embody the virtues of all colored stones. Notably, opal is also the traditional gift for the 14th wedding anniversary.
Tourmaline’s history is somewhat more complex, often marked by misidentification. The Sinhalese word toramalli, meaning “stone with mixed colours,” gives the gem its name, reflecting its remarkable polychromism. For centuries, tourmaline was often mistaken for other gemstones due to its diverse color range. A famous example is the “Caesar’s Ruby” in the Russian crown jewels, which is, in fact, a red tourmaline (rubellite). Green tourmaline crystals discovered in Brazil during the 1500s were initially believed to be emeralds. It wasn’t until the 19th century that tourmaline was formally recognized as a distinct mineral species.
Pink tourmaline, specifically, gained favor in the late 1800s with Empress Dowager Tzu-Hsi of China, who acquired nearly the entire production from a California mine. Her devotion to the gem continued after her death, as she was buried with a pink tourmaline pillow, and the remainder of her collection was crafted into exquisite carvings.
Geological Formation and Sources
Opals are unique in their formation, not being crystalline like many other gemstones. They are formed from silica-rich water that seeps into cracks and voids in the earth, depositing microscopic spheres of silica. The arrangement and size of these spheres determine the “play-of-color” that makes opals so prized.
While the origins of the first opals brought to the Western world lie in India, today, Australia is the primary source of opals, producing the vast majority of the world’s supply.
Tourmaline, on the other hand, forms in distinctive prism-like crystals with long hexagonal structures. It occurs naturally and contains a diverse variety of elements, with most jewelry-grade tourmalines consisting primarily of the mineral elbaite. Tourmaline is found in various locations worldwide, including Brazil, where green tourmaline was first discovered by Spanish conquistadors, and California, which was a significant source for pink tourmaline during the time of Empress Tzu-Hsi.
Gemological Properties
Opal
The defining characteristic of opal is its “play-of-color,” a shimmering display of rainbow hues caused by the diffraction of light through microscopic silica spheres. No two opals are exactly alike, and this phenomenon is often compared to fireworks, galaxies, and volcanic sunsets.
Pink Tourmaline
Pink tourmaline exhibits a striking pink hue with variations throughout the color spectrum. What sets tourmaline apart is its ability to occur in a wide range of colors, with some crystals even displaying multiple colors – known as watermelon tourmaline. The gem’s beauty is enhanced when exposed to light, showcasing its prism-like crystal structure.
The following table summarizes key gemological properties, where available:
| Property | Opal | Pink Tourmaline |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | Hydrated amorphous silica (SiO₂·nH₂O) | Complex borosilicate (variable) |
| Color | Variable, displaying play-of-color | Pink, with variations in hue |
| Crystal System | Amorphous | Trigonal |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 5.5 - 6.5 | 7 - 7.5 |
| Specific Gravity | 1.98 - 2.15 | 3.07 - 3.20 |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, both opal and tourmaline have been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Opal has long been associated with purity, hope, and truth. Ancient beliefs suggest it could bestow prophetic powers and protect against disease.
Tourmaline’s symbolism varies depending on its color. Black tourmaline is believed to protect the wearer from negativity and enhance self-confidence. Pink tourmaline embodies love, compassion, and gentleness, while green tourmaline is thought to promote courage, strength, and stamina.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its relatively lower hardness (5.5-6.5 on the Mohs scale), opal is more susceptible to scratches and damage than many other gemstones. It requires careful handling and should be protected from impacts. Cleaning opal involves gentle washing with mild soap and warm water, avoiding harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners.
Pink tourmaline, with a hardness of 7-7.5 on the Mohs scale, is more durable and can withstand everyday wear. It can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for tourmaline, but caution should be exercised with stones that have been treated or contain fractures.
Applications of October Birthstones
Both opal and tourmaline are widely used in jewelry, including rings, earrings, pendants, and bracelets. Opal’s play-of-color makes it a particularly striking centerpiece, while tourmaline’s diverse color range allows for a wide variety of design possibilities. Beyond jewelry, tourmaline has applications in various industries due to its piezoelectric properties.
Why are there two birthstones for October?
The tradition of having multiple birthstones for a single month is a relatively modern development. While the earliest associations between gemstones and months can be traced back to biblical times, the current system of assigning specific birthstones to each month evolved over time. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) recognizes both opal and pink tourmaline as official October birthstones, offering individuals a choice based on personal preference.
Conclusion
Opal and pink tourmaline represent the captivating beauty and rich history of October’s birthstones. From the ancient beliefs surrounding opal’s mystical powers to the Empress Dowager Tzu-Hsi’s passion for pink tourmaline, these gemstones have held cultural significance for centuries. Their unique gemological properties, combined with their diverse symbolism, make them cherished choices for jewelry and meaningful gifts for those born in the tenth month. Both gems offer a spectrum of color and brilliance, ensuring a perfect representation of October’s vibrant spirit.