October Birth Stone

When it comes to birthstones, October babies are blessed with two of the most captivating and colourful gems: opal and tourmaline. These stones are not only adored for their visual appeal but are also rich in history and symbolism, making them a perfect gift for someone special or a cherished addition to your personal jewellery collection.

Opal's name is derived from the Sanskrit word for “precious stone”, "upala" and the Greek word "opallios," which means "to see a change in colour." Formed primarily from silica-rich water that seeps into cracks in the earth, evaporates and then leaves behind silica deposits which eventually turn into opal, the gemstone is most commonly found in Australia, which produces around 95% of the world's opal supply. Other significant sources include Ethiopia, Mexico, and Brazil.

Throughout history, opal has been associated with various mythological tales. According to Arabic myth, opals fell from the heavens during thunderstorms, capturing the lightning within their multi-coloured depths. While Greek mythology suggests that opals were formed from the tears of joy wept by Zeus after his victory over the Titans.

Most commonly found in Africa and Brazil, tourmaline is formed by hydrothermal activity — a process in which hot water and vapours carry the necessary elements to form crystals in pockets or any open space within igneous or metamorphic rocks. As a crystalline boron silicate mineral containing a variety of elements, the gemstone boasts an array of colours, ranging from deep pinks and reds to greens, blues and yellows, and even multi-coloured varieties.

There are myriad myths surrounding tourmaline, many of which align with its colourful nature and magical properties. One ancient Egyptian legend claims that as the stone made its journey up from the Earth’s centre, it travelled along a rainbow, and this is why it can be found in so many different colours today. As a result, tourmaline is often referred to as the “rainbow gemstone”. Another popular belief about the birthstone is that it provides protection against negative energies and promotes a sense of calm and peace.

Caring for an opal stone requires special attention due to its delicate nature. To keep your opal looking its best, avoid exposure to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight for extended periods, as these can cause the stone to crack or lose its colour. Opal jewellery should be cleaned gently with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap, avoiding harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners that could cause damage to the stone.

By contrast, looking after a tourmaline stone is relatively straightforward, given its durability, but it does still require some attention to maintain its beauty. Clean your tourmaline jewellery with warm, soapy water and a soft brush or cloth, ensuring you rinse it thoroughly to remove any soap residue. Avoid harsh chemicals, high heat, or sudden temperature changes, as this can affect the stone's colour and cause fractures.

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