October Birthstones - Opal and Tourmaline

Posted on Oct 04, 2024 By Zachary Rawlings

October birthdays are fortunate enough to have not one but two beautiful birthstones to commemorate their special month. Both Opal and Tourmaline come in a stunning array of colors, making it easy to find a unique piece that resonates with your October-born loved one. Today, we're diving into the mesmerizing world of opal jewelry and what makes this gem truly one of a kind.

What Makes Opal So Special?

Opal is renowned for its captivating flashes of rainbow light, a phenomenon that has mesmerized gem enthusiasts for centuries. The word "opal" originates from the Greek word opallios, meaning "to see a change of color," perfectly capturing the gemstone's dynamic play-of-color. Some have likened this play-of-color to natural wonders like volcanoes, fireworks, and even galaxies.

But what causes this magical display? In the 1960s, scientists discovered that the vivid, shifting colors in precious opals result from microscopic silica spheres that diffract light in a spectrum of colors. This unique structure makes opal unlike any other gemstone, earning it a reputation for beauty and mystique.

The Symbolism and Metaphysical Power of Opal

Throughout history, opal has been linked to good luck, hope, and passion. Wearing opal is believed to encourage optimism, creativity, and a zest for life. In metaphysical circles, opal's rainbow hues symbolize diversity and acceptance, offering a soothing effect on the wearer. Some even believe that these vibrant colors can energize and rejuvenate one's spirit.

Imagine slipping on a piece of opal jewelry and instantly feeling a boost of positivity, a reminder of the boundless beauty and potential in the world around you. That's the magic of opal.

Woman Wearing opal Ring with Blue Topaz Halo from Park City Jewelers

Woman Wearing Opal and Diamond Ring from Park City Jewelers

Caring for Your Opal Jewelry: What You Need to Know

Opal is a relatively soft gemstone, measuring only 5.5 to 6 on the Mohs hardness scale. Any gemstone under a 7 requires a bit of extra love and care to maintain its stunning luster. Opal is also susceptible to temperature changes and dehydration, which can lead to cracking.

Here are a few tips to keep your opal jewelry in pristine condition:

Store separately: Keep your opal pieces away from harder gemstones like diamonds to avoid scratches.
Wear with care: Opal rings and bracelets are more prone to impact with hard surfaces, so be mindful when wearing these items.
Avoid extreme conditions: Try to protect your opal jewelry from extreme temperature changes to preserve its integrity.

Though opal requires careful handling, its iridescent beauty is well worth the effort. Set as rings, earrings, pendants, or bracelets, opals make for stunning, eye-catching pieces that are sure to turn heads.

Discover Opal Jewelry at Park City Jewelers

At Park City Jewelers, we pride ourselves on offering an exquisite collection of opal jewelry that showcases this gemstone's extraordinary play-of-color. Whether you’re searching for a dazzling opal ring framed with diamonds or a delicate opal pendant, our collection has something for everyone.

Our opal pieces are meticulously crafted to enhance the gem's natural beauty, allowing you to wear this enchanting stone confidently and with style. With every opal jewelry piece, you're not just wearing a gemstone – you're carrying a symbol of hope, creativity, and vibrant energy.

Opal Jewelry

Pear Shaped Opal Cabochon with Sapphire Halo Pendant with Chain

Regular: $18,249.00

Sale: $18,249.00
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Oval Shaped Opal Cabochon with Sapphire Halo Pendant with Chain

Regular: $11,879.00

Sale: $11,879.00
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Ethiopian Opal and Diamond Ring

Regular: $10,995.00

Sale: $10,995.00
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Oval Shaped Opal Cabochon with Diamond Art Deco Pendant with Chain

Regular: $10,895.00

Sale: $10,895.00
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Oval Ethiopian Opal with Diamond Accented Pendant

Regular: from $7,749.00

Sale: from $7,749.00
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Oval Shaped Opal Cabochon and Diamond Pendant with Chain

Regular: $6,995.00

Sale: $6,995.00
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Opal Cabochon with Sapphire Halo and Diamond Accented Stud Earrings

Regular: $5,995.00

Sale: $5,995.00
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Marquise Shaped Ethiopian Opal & Halo Intricate Ring

Regular: $5,549.00

Sale: $5,549.00
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Tourmaline: A Gemstone of Endless Colors

Tourmaline

The name tourmaline originates from the Sinhalese word "turamali," meaning "stone of mixed colors." This is a fitting name, as tourmaline displays a broader range of colors than almost any other known gemstone. With hues ranging from deep greens to vibrant pinks and blues, tourmaline has often been mistaken for other gemstones throughout history. Even one of the stones in the Russian crown jewels, long believed to be a ruby, was later discovered to be a stunning red tourmaline!

The Metaphysical Magic of Tourmaline

Tourmaline has a rich history of being associated with creativity and artistic expression. Known as the gemstone of poets and creative artists, it’s said that Shakespeare himself kept a collection of tourmaline close by to help overcome writer's block. Many believe that tourmaline inspires creativity, encourages love, and helps soothe negative emotions and troubled relationships.

Wearing tourmaline is like carrying a talisman of artistic inspiration and emotional balance. Whether you’re a writer seeking the muse or simply looking for a piece of jewelry that radiates positive energy, tourmaline is the perfect gemstone to elevate your spirit and style.

Woman Wearing Rubelite Diamond Halo Ring from Park City Jewelers

Woman Wearing Watermelon Tourmaline Ring from Park City Jewelers

Tourmaline Jewelry: Versatile and Perfect for Everyday Wear

Tourmaline has a hardness of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it an ideal choice for everyday wear in all types of jewelry settings. Unlike softer gemstones, tourmaline can withstand daily activities, allowing you to wear your favorite pieces with confidence.

The incredible variety of colors in tourmaline means that the color of the stone is often the most critical consideration when choosing your perfect piece. Richly saturated tourmaline stones are highly sought after and can be more valuable, making each piece unique and special.

One of our favorite varieties is the captivating watermelon tourmaline. Beloved for its stunning gradient from green to red, this gem is reminiscent of a refreshing slice of watermelon. However, gem-quality watermelon tourmaline is increasingly rare, making these pieces all the more coveted. At Park City Jewelers, we take pride in offering one of the most beautiful collections of watermelon tourmaline jewelry you’ll find anywhere.

Visit Our Store or Shop Online

Ready to add a touch of October's magic to your jewelry collection? Browse our selection of opal and tourmaline jewelry online or visit us at Park City Jewelers to find the perfect piece. Each piece in our collection is hand-selected for its unique beauty, ensuring you receive a piece as special as you or your loved one.

Don't just take our word for it. Experience the stunning play-of-color and the captivating allure of opal and tourmaline jewelry for yourself. Celebrate your October birthday or treat someone special to a gift they’ll cherish forever.