October Birthstone: The Mesmerizing Beauty of Opal and Tourmaline
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- FANCIME 14K Solid Gold Ethiopian Opal Teardrop Pendant Necklace
- Gem Stone King 925 Sterling Silver White Opal and White Topaz Women's Ring
- Peora 14K White Gold Pink Tourmaline Stud Earrings 1.50 Carats
- Genuine Australian Opal Doublet Drop Earrings in Sterling Silver
- Ross-Simons Ethiopian Opal Tennis Bracelet in Sterling Silver
- Angara Natural Green Tourmaline Pendant Necklace in 14K Yellow Gold
- Effy Collection Mexican Fire Opal and Diamond Ring in 14K Rose Gold
- Natural Watermelon Tourmaline Slice Pendant in Sterling Silver
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No two opals in the world are identical. Each one contains its own private universe of shifting colors—a kaleidoscope that changes with every movement.
October celebrates two of nature's most spectacular gems: opal, the "Queen of Gemstones," and tourmaline, which occurs in more colors than any other gem. Ancient Romans believed opals contained the essence of every precious stone, making them the most valuable of all. When selecting October birthstone jewelry like an Ethiopian opal teardrop pendant or vibrant pink tourmaline stud earrings, you're choosing gems with truly unique character—no two pieces will ever be exactly alike.
Why is opal such a captivating October birthstone?
Opal stands apart from all other gemstones due to its extraordinary play-of-color—a phenomenon where spectral colors shift and dance across the stone's surface as light interacts with microscopic silica spheres arranged in a grid-like pattern. Ancient Romans called opal the "Cupid Stone" and considered it the most precious of all gems, believing it contained the virtues of every colored stone. The Bedouin people believed opals fell from the sky during thunderstorms, containing captured lightning within. For October-born individuals, opal symbolizes creativity, inspiration, and heightened intuition. The gem is thought to enhance imagination and artistic expression, reflecting the multifaceted personality traits often associated with those born during this month. Opals range from 5 to 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them best suited for protective settings like bezels rather than exposed prongs. Explore our birthstone quiz to discover which October stone best matches your personality.
What is the history of opal and tourmaline?
The name opal derives from the Sanskrit word "upala," meaning "precious stone," which became "opalus" in Latin. The earliest known opal artifacts date back approximately 6,000 years to a cave in Kenya, though geologists believe these stones originated in Ethiopia. Ancient Romans treasured opals above all other gems—Mark Antony famously purchased an exceptional opal because its galaxy-like appearance reminded him of stargazing with Cleopatra. Napoleon gifted the legendary "Burning of Troy" opal to Empress Josephine. Hungary served as the world's opal capital until deposits depleted in the late 18th century, when Australia emerged as the dominant source, now producing over 90% of the global supply.
Tourmaline earned its place as October's modern birthstone in 1912 when the National Association of Jewelers updated the birthstone list to favor transparent gems. The name comes from the Sinhalese "turamali," meaning "stone of mixed colors"—an apt description for a gem that occurs in virtually every color of the rainbow. The stunning pink variety particularly represents October birthdays, symbolizing love, compassion, and emotional healing. For those seeking September's sapphire or looking ahead to November, our complete birthstone guide covers all twelve months.
How to select the most stunning October birthstone jewelry?
For opals, the most important quality factor is play-of-color—the more vivid and varied the color display, the more valuable the stone. Black opals from Lightning Ridge, Australia, are the rarest and most prized, displaying brilliant colors against a dark background. White opals offer a more affordable option with delicate color play against a pale base. Ethiopian opals have gained popularity for their exceptional fire and transparency. Consider opal doublets or triplets—thin slices of opal backed with darker material and sometimes topped with clear quartz—which offer stunning color play at lower price points while providing added durability.
When choosing tourmaline, focus on color saturation and clarity. Pink tourmaline ranges from soft rose to vibrant magenta, with the most valuable stones showing pure, saturated pink without brown or gray undertones. Green tourmaline, called "verdelite," spans from spring-leaf pale to deep emerald tones. The rare "watermelon" variety displays both colors, with a pink center surrounded by a green rim. At 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, tourmaline is more durable than opal, making it an excellent choice for everyday jewelry or engagement rings.
What are key considerations when selecting October birthstone jewelry?
For Opal:
- Look for bright, vivid play-of-color with multiple colors visible
- Consider the body color: black (most valuable), white, crystal, or fire opal
- Examine the pattern—broad flashes of color (harlequin) are more valuable than pinfire patterns
- Choose protective settings like bezels or channels to shield the softer stone
- Pair with yellow gold to enhance warm tones or white metals for modern contrast
For Tourmaline:
- Prioritize color saturation—the most vivid, pure colors command higher prices
- Check for clarity; eye-clean stones are desirable though some inclusions are natural
- Consider the cut, which should maximize the stone's color and brilliance
- Pink tourmaline pairs beautifully with rose gold; green tourmaline complements yellow gold
- Tourmaline's durability makes it suitable for rings and bracelets worn daily
Care Instructions: Clean opal jewelry gently with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth—never use ultrasonic cleaners or steamers. Store opals separately in a fabric pouch to prevent scratching from harder gems. Keep opals away from extreme heat or sudden temperature changes, which can cause cracking. Tourmaline is more forgiving but should still be cleaned gently and stored carefully to maintain its beauty for generations.
Both October birthstones make meaningful gifts—commemorate birthdays with a white opal halo ring or dramatic Australian opal doublet earrings. For the adventurous, a fire opal engagement ring or unique watermelon tourmaline pendant showcases nature's artistry. An opal tennis bracelet creates a rainbow around your wrist, while a sophisticated green tourmaline pendant rivals emerald at a fraction of the price. Whether you prefer opal's mystical color play or tourmaline's rainbow versatility, October offers two of nature's most spectacular gems.
FANCIME 14K Solid Gold Ethiopian Opal Teardrop Pendant Necklace
FANCIME 14K Solid Gold Ethiopian
This exquisite pendant features a genuine Ethiopian opal set in solid 14K gold.
This exquisite pendant features a genuine Ethiopian opal set in solid 14K gold. The teardrop design showcases the opal's natural play-of-color, with flashes of blue, green, and pink dancing across the surface. Comes with an adjustable 16-18 inch chain.
"The colors are absolutely stunning - like a tiny galaxy around my neck. Perfect October birthday gift.
Gem Stone King 925 Sterling Silver White Opal and White Topaz Women's Ring
Gem Stone King 925 Sterling Silver White Opal and White Topaz Women s Ring
This stunning ring features a genuine Ethiopian white opal surrounded by a sparkling halo of white topaz stones.
This stunning ring features a genuine Ethiopian white opal surrounded by a sparkling halo of white topaz stones. The 925 sterling silver setting provides durability while showcasing the opal's mesmerizing color play. Available in sizes 5-10.
"The opal has beautiful fire and the halo setting makes it look so elegant. Great value for the quality.
Peora 14K White Gold Pink Tourmaline Stud Earrings 1.50 Carats
Peora 14K White Gold 1 50 Carats
These elegant stud earrings feature genuine cushion-cut pink tourmaline stones totaling 1.
These elegant stud earrings feature genuine cushion-cut pink tourmaline stones totaling 1.50 carats. Set in solid 14K white gold with secure push-back closures. The vibrant pink color represents October's modern birthstone beautifully.
"The pink color is so vibrant and the gold setting feels substantial. Perfect for October birthdays.
Genuine Australian Opal Doublet Drop Earrings in Sterling Silver
Genuine Australian Opal Doublet Drop Earrings in Sterling Silver
These beautiful drop earrings feature genuine Australian opal doublets known for their exceptional play-of-color.
These beautiful drop earrings feature genuine Australian opal doublets known for their exceptional play-of-color. The black background of the doublet enhances the brilliant flashes of blue, green, and purple. Set in 925 sterling silver.
"The colors are incredible - reminds me of the Northern Lights. Everyone asks where I got them.
Ross-Simons Ethiopian Opal Tennis Bracelet in Sterling Silver
Ross Simons Ethiopian in Sterling Silver
This elegant tennis bracelet features a continuous line of genuine Ethiopian opals set in sterling silver.
This elegant tennis bracelet features a continuous line of genuine Ethiopian opals set in sterling silver. Each stone displays its own unique play-of-color, creating a mesmerizing rainbow effect around your wrist. Secure box clasp closure.
"Each opal is different and catches the light beautifully. A stunning piece for any October birthday.
Angara Natural Green Tourmaline Pendant Necklace in 14K Yellow Gold
Angara Natural Necklace in 14K Yellow Gold
This sophisticated pendant features a natural green tourmaline with exceptional clarity and color.
This sophisticated pendant features a natural green tourmaline with exceptional clarity and color. The emerald-cut stone is set in 14K yellow gold with a delicate bail. Includes an 18-inch gold chain.
"The green is rich and vibrant - looks like a mini emerald. Beautiful craftsmanship.
Effy Collection Mexican Fire Opal and Diamond Ring in 14K Rose Gold
Effy Collection Mexican Fire Opal and Diamond Ring in 14K Rose Gold
This stunning ring features a genuine Mexican fire opal with warm orange-red tones, accented by brilliant diamonds.
This stunning ring features a genuine Mexican fire opal with warm orange-red tones, accented by brilliant diamonds. Set in romantic 14K rose gold, this piece makes a unique engagement ring or statement piece for October-born individuals.
"The fire opal is absolutely breathtaking. The rose gold setting complements the warm tones perfectly.
Natural Watermelon Tourmaline Slice Pendant in Sterling Silver
Natural in Sterling Silver
This unique pendant features a genuine watermelon tourmaline slice showing the characteristic pink center and green rim.
This unique pendant features a genuine watermelon tourmaline slice showing the characteristic pink center and green rim. Each stone is one-of-a-kind, displaying nature's artistry. Set in 925 sterling silver with an 18-inch chain.
"Such a unique piece! The pink and green colors are stunning together. True wearable art.
Review of Our Favorite 3
FANCIME 14K Solid Gold Ethiopian
This exquisite pendant features a genuine Ethiopian opal set in solid 14K gold.
Gem Stone King 925 Sterling Silver White Opal and White Topaz Women s Ring
This stunning ring features a genuine Ethiopian white opal surrounded by a sparkling halo of white topaz stones.
Peora 14K White Gold 1 50 Carats
These elegant stud earrings feature genuine cushion-cut pink tourmaline stones totaling 1.
About the Author
Alfreda Borror
Alfreda Borror is an avid admirer of the finer things in life, and has an unending appreciation for luxury. Her considerable skills lie in design and fashion, having spent years working as a costume designer for both theatre and film.
