The opal, the birthstone for October, is a gemstone steeped in history and often shrouded in superstition. While today it is celebrated for its captivating play of color, its reputation has undergone significant shifts throughout the centuries, ranging from being considered a symbol of hope and purity to being associated with bad luck. This article will explore the opal’s historical context, its geological origins, the lore surrounding it, and the reasons behind its fluctuating perception.
History and Lore
Throughout much of history, the opal was considered a remarkably lucky stone. Ancient civilizations held the opal in high regard, attributing various powers and symbolic meanings to it. Ancient Greeks believed opals bestowed the gift of prophecy and offered protection from disease. In eastern cultures, the opal was considered sacred, embodying the spirit of truth. Europeans, for a considerable period, viewed the opal as a symbol of hope, purity, and truth. During the Middle Ages, it was believed that opals possessed the combined powers of all other gemstones whose colors appeared within the stone.
However, the opal’s fortunes began to change in the 19th century. A pivotal moment in the gemstone’s narrative occurred with the publication of Sir Walter Scott’s novel, Anne of Geierstein, in 1829. Within the story, an opal talisman worn by the heroine, Anne, reflected her moods – shining red when angry, blue when sad, and green when happy. Crucially, when Anne died, the opal lost its color and faded, linking the stone to misfortune and death.
This fictional portrayal significantly impacted the opal’s public perception. The association with tragedy, coupled with the competitive nature of the precious gem trade, contributed to the rise of the superstition that wearing an opal would bring bad luck to anyone not born in October. This belief, though relatively recent in origin – likely emerging in the early to mid-19th century – became widely circulated and persists in some circles today. Some modern sources even suggest that the diamond industry deliberately fostered this negative perception to boost diamond sales, though this claim is not widely accepted in formal gemology.
Geological Formation and Sources
Opals are unique gemstones formed from a gel-like silica (SiO2) as it passes through various phases on its way to becoming stable crystalline quartz. This makes them relatively unstable compared to other gemstones. The formation process typically occurs in cracks and voids within rocks, where silica-rich water deposits the material over long periods.
The sources of opals are geographically diverse, though specific locations are not detailed in the provided materials.
Gemological Properties
The provided sources do not offer detailed gemological properties of opals, such as refractive index or specific gravity. However, they do highlight several key characteristics. Opals are known for their fragility and susceptibility to breakage, requiring careful handling and wear. This physical property may have contributed to the belief that they are unlucky, as they are easily damaged.
A defining feature of many opals is their “play of color,” the iridescent display of rainbow-like hues within the stone. This phenomenon is caused by the diffraction of light as it passes through microscopic spheres of silica within the opal. The sources note that opals can deteriorate over time, losing their vibrant color and becoming a colorless, chalky mass of silicon dioxide.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism associated with opals has been remarkably varied. As previously mentioned, ancient cultures attributed protective and prophetic qualities to the stone. In the Middle Ages, the belief that opals contained the powers of all other gemstones further enhanced their mystical significance.
The shift in perception during the Victorian era, influenced by literature, transformed the opal into a symbol of misfortune. However, even amidst the superstition, the opal continued to be appreciated for its beauty and unique optical properties. Today, the opal remains a popular choice for jewelry, representing individuality and a connection to the past.
Care and Cleaning
Due to their relative softness and instability, opals require careful handling and maintenance. The sources emphasize that opals are prone to breakage and should be worn with care. Specific cleaning instructions are not provided, but given their fragility, gentle cleaning with a soft cloth and mild soap is recommended. Avoiding harsh chemicals and abrasive materials is crucial to preserve the opal’s color and integrity.
October’s Alternative Birthstone
While opal has traditionally been recognized as the birthstone for October, the Jewelry Industry Council suggested pink tourmaline as an alternative in 1952. This addition was approved by both the American Gem Society and the National Retail Jewelers Council, providing those born in October with a choice of birthstones.
Conclusion
The opal’s journey through history is a fascinating example of how cultural beliefs and literary influences can shape the perception of a gemstone. From being revered as a symbol of hope and possessing mystical powers to being branded as unlucky, the opal’s reputation has undergone a dramatic transformation. Despite the lingering superstition, the opal continues to captivate with its unique play of color and remains a cherished birthstone for those born in October, alongside the alternative choice of pink tourmaline. Its story serves as a reminder that the value of a gemstone is not solely determined by its physical properties but also by the cultural narratives and beliefs that surround it.