The opal, a mesmerizing gemstone celebrated for its iridescent play of color, holds the distinction of being the traditional birthstone for October. However, unlike many gemstones associated with positive attributes, the opal is uniquely burdened with a long-standing reputation for bad luck, a superstition that has shadowed its history for centuries. This article delves into the fascinating world of the opal, exploring its historical significance, the origins of its unlucky associations, its gemological properties, and the enduring allure that continues to captivate gem enthusiasts.
History and Lore
Throughout much of history, the opal was considered a symbol of hope, purity, and truth. Ancient Romans revered the opal as a stone of good fortune, associating it with love and hope. References to the opal appear in historical accounts as early as the Roman era, with the gemstone being prized for its unique optical phenomenon. However, the narrative surrounding the opal dramatically shifted in the 19th century, particularly following the publication of Sir Walter Scott’s novel, Anne of Geierstein in 1829.
The novel features a character, Anne, who possesses an opal that reflects her moods – shining red when angry, blue when sad, and green when happy. Upon Anne’s death, the opal loses its color, becoming dull and lifeless. This fictional portrayal is widely believed to have sparked the superstition that opals bring misfortune, particularly to those not born in October. The story resonated with Victorian sensibilities and contributed to a decline in the opal’s popularity.
Further fueling the negative perception were several anecdotal accounts of misfortune linked to opals, including a tale of Spain’s King Alfonso XII gifting an opal ring to successive recipients, each of whom met an untimely death. While the king’s actual cause of death is debated – tuberculosis or dysentery – the story cemented the opal’s association with tragedy in popular lore.
Despite these narratives, it’s important to note that the notion of the opal as unlucky is a relatively recent development. Prior to the 19th century, the gem was generally regarded as a positive and desirable stone. In 1912, the National Association of Jewelers even replaced the opal as the official October birthstone with tourmaline, potentially influenced by the prevailing superstitions and a desire to promote other gemstones. However, the opal remains an alternative birthstone for those born in October and for individuals born during the 6 PM hour, regardless of their birth month.
Geological Formation and Sources
The sources do not provide specific details regarding the geological formation of opals or their mining locations.
Gemological Properties
The provided sources do not offer detailed gemological properties of opals, such as chemical composition or refractive index. However, they do highlight several key characteristics. Opals are described as unstable, consisting of gel-like silica (SiO2) that is in the process of becoming stable crystalline quartz. This instability contributes to their fragility and susceptibility to cracking or losing their “play of color” – the internal fire that makes opals so unique.
The sources emphasize the importance of careful handling and storage to preserve an opal’s beauty. Opals can develop cracks and lose their vibrancy if their water content evaporates. Therefore, storing them in a moist, soft cotton cloth is recommended. They are also relatively soft, making them prone to damage, and gem cutters often avoid working with them due to the risk of breakage.
Cleaning opals requires special care. Solid opals can be gently cleaned with mild soap and warm water, while opal doublets and triplets should only be wiped with a damp cloth and mild soap, avoiding immersion in water. Harsh chemicals, steam cleaners, and ultrasonic cleaners should always be avoided.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Historically, the name “opal” is believed to originate from the Roman word opalus, meaning “precious gem,” or the Greek word opallios, meaning “opal.” Another theory suggests the name derives from the Sanskrit word upala, meaning “jewel.”
Beyond its association with bad luck, the opal has also been linked to various positive attributes. The sources mention that different colors of tourmaline, often presented as an alternative to opal, were believed to hold special powers by Victorians. While the sources do not detail specific metaphysical beliefs associated with the opal itself, its ability to display a rainbow of colors suggests a connection to creativity, inspiration, and emotional expression.
Care and Cleaning
As previously mentioned, opals require delicate care due to their fragility and sensitivity to dehydration. The sources provide the following recommendations:
- Avoid wearing opal jewelry in extreme temperatures or harsh environments.
- Store opals in a safe place, separated from other jewelry, and wrapped in a moist, soft cloth.
- Clean solid opals gently with mild soap and warm water, using a soft cloth or brush.
- Clean opal doublets and triplets with a damp cloth and mild soap, avoiding immersion in water.
- Avoid harsh chemicals, steam cleaners, ultrasonics, boiling, bleach, and abrasive cleaners.
- Consult a jeweler for specific care instructions before purchasing opal jewelry.
Conclusion
The opal remains a gemstone shrouded in mystery and contradiction. While its historical association with bad luck has persisted for nearly two centuries, fueled by literature and anecdotal accounts, its origins lie in a more positive and revered past. The opal’s unique play of color, its delicate nature, and its intriguing history continue to fascinate and inspire. Whether viewed as a harbinger of misfortune or a symbol of hope and beauty, the opal undoubtedly holds a unique place in the world of gemstones.