October Birthstone

October Birthstone
Opal, Tourmaline.

October birthstone jewelry is usually made of opals though tourmaline is also commonly available. Both opal and tourmaline are the modern birthstones for October while the traditional birthstone is only tourmaline. Opal can be either whist or black with multicolor sparkles; Tourmaline is commonly pink or green though it can be other colors as well. Opal symbolizes beauty and happiness; Tourmaline is said to protect the wearer.


Opal















Opal is the October birthstone. The word opal is derived from the Latin word opalus meaning precious stone. Ancient kings treasured opal for its beauty and firey colors. Opal is said to be a symbol of hope and beauty. Pink tourmaline is the alternate birthstone for October.
Opal is the most colorful of all gemstones due to the myriad of colors that are displayed. No two opals are alike. Precious opal is rare and is prized as a gemstone.
Opal is one of the few non-crystalline gems that has a very poorly defined system and a relative hardness far less than quartz. Opal is mined in a number of countries with Australia being the top provider of both black and white opals. Opal is the birthstone for October and the Libra zodiac sign.

Tourmaline:











Tourmaline is one of the two gemstones associated with the month of October.
Tourmaline comes in many colors such as blue, yellow, pink, red, black, green and clear. High quality blue tourmaline is the most valuable. It has a hardness of 7.5.
As with all gems, protect tourmaline from scratches and sharp blows. Also avoid large temperature changes (such as leaving it be a heater vent or in a hot car). Do not clean these necklaces and rings in a home ultrasonic cleaner.