October boasts not one, but two recognized birthstones: the captivating opal and the richly colored tourmaline. Both gemstones offer a stunning array of hues and a fascinating history, making them popular choices for jewelry and cherished possessions. This article will delve into the origins, properties, lore, and care of these vibrant October birthstones, drawing upon available knowledge to provide a comprehensive overview.
History and Lore
The story of tourmaline stretches back centuries, with the name itself originating from the Sinhalese word turamali, meaning “stone of mixed color.” This etymology hints at the gem’s most defining characteristic – its incredible variety of colors. An old Egyptian legend attributes this diversity to the tourmaline’s journey from the Earth’s core, passing over a rainbow and absorbing all its colors. This tale explains why tourmaline is often referred to as the “gemstone of the rainbow.” In the late 19th century, the Chinese Empress Dowager Tzu-Hsi developed a particular fondness for pink tourmaline, acquiring nearly the entire output from California mines. She even requested to be buried with a pillow of the gem, and the remainder of her collection was crafted into intricate carvings.
Opal, too, has a rich history steeped in lore. Ancient Romans considered it a symbol of hope and purity. Throughout history, opals have been associated with fire, lightning, and the colors of the rainbow, earning them descriptions like “the queen of gemstones.” More recently, the healing properties of opal have been noted, with some believing the stone can turn gray or dull yellow if the wearer is ill or injured. Pink opal, in particular, is thought to offer relief from ailments affecting the eyes, spleen, throat, pancreas, and bone marrow, while also promoting peace and devotion within families. Tourmaline is also believed to possess healing powers, balancing hormones and potentially aiding in the fight against genetic disorders, as well as calming nerves and enhancing creativity.
Geological Formation and Sources
Tourmaline forms in distinctive prism-like crystals with long hexagonal structures. Fine quality pink tourmaline is sourced from several locations worldwide, including Brazil, Nigeria, Mozambique, and various regions of West Africa.
Opal’s formation is unique. It is comprised of millions of tiny silicon spheres arranged in a specific pattern. When light passes through these spheres at the correct angle, the phenomenon known as “play-of-color” occurs, making each opal truly unique. The majority of fire opals originate in Mexico, with significant sources emerging in the mid-nineteenth century. Other opal varieties, like crystal, water, and boulder opal, are also found in various locations. Boulder opal uniquely incorporates portions of the host rock into the gem, enhancing its durability. Assembled opal, a more affordable alternative, is also available.
Gemological Properties
Tourmaline’s durability is noteworthy, measuring 7-7.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it suitable for everyday wear. However, it is susceptible to damage from excessive heat. The most common color combination in tourmaline is green and pink, known as watermelon tourmaline. Varieties with raspberry or purple tones are classified as rubellite.
Opal, being relatively soft, requires more careful handling. The value of opal is determined by several factors, including background color, the pattern of any play-of-color effect, and the clarity of the stone. Play-of-color patterns are often described as pinfire (tiny dots of color), harlequin (medium-sized, geometrically-shaped color patches), or flash (large regions of the same color). Harlequin patterns are generally the most valuable, while pinfire patterns are the least.
Here's a table summarizing key properties:
| Gemstone | Hardness (Mohs) | Chemical Composition | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourmaline | 7-7.5 | Complex borosilicate | Wide range of colors, often multicolored; durable |
| Opal | Variable (typically 5.5-6.5) | Hydrated amorphous silica | Play-of-color; varying transparency; requires careful handling |
Types of Opal
Several distinct types of opal are recognized, each with its own unique characteristics:
- Fire Opal: Features red, orange, or yellow backgrounds, often lacking play-of-color.
- Crystal Opal: Transparent with superior play-of-color effects.
- Water Opal: Colorless or with light base colors, exhibiting subtle or no play-of-color. Often called "jelly opals" due to their translucent appearance.
- Boulder Opal: Combines precious opal with portions of the host rock, enhancing durability.
- Assembled Opal: A more affordable alternative, often consisting of a thin layer of opal bonded to a backing.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Both opal and tourmaline are rich in symbolism. Opal is often associated with hope, purity, and creativity, while tourmaline represents balance, healing, and inspiration. The diverse colors of tourmaline contribute to its multifaceted symbolism, with each hue believed to possess unique properties. Pink tourmaline, as the modern October birthstone, is often linked to love, compassion, and emotional healing.
Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the beauty of these October birthstones requires specific care. Pink tourmaline can be cleaned with simple soap and water, avoiding harsh chemicals. Opal, due to its relative softness, requires more gentle handling. While opal earrings and pendants can be worn daily with minimal risk, opal rings and bracelets should be removed before engaging in strenuous activities or when exposed to harsh conditions. Proper care will ensure these gemstones remain vibrant for years to come.
Conclusion
Opal and tourmaline, the birthstones of October, offer a captivating blend of history, beauty, and symbolism. From the Empress Dowager Tzu-Hsi’s passion for pink tourmaline to the ancient lore surrounding opal’s fiery brilliance, these gemstones have captivated humanity for centuries. Their unique geological formations, diverse colors, and perceived healing properties continue to make them cherished additions to jewelry collections and meaningful gifts for those born in the tenth month. Whether you are drawn to the rainbow hues of tourmaline or the ethereal play-of-color of opal, these October birthstones are sure to inspire and delight.