Meaning & Uses of Opal & Tourmaline: October Birthstones

If you're born in October, you may ask yourself, "What are the birthstones for October?" There are two October birthstones, namely Tourmaline and Opal. These gemstones have equally wonderful meanings, history, lore, and uses. Let's find out more about these gemstones for October in this blog.

What is the gemstone tourmaline? What makes it a special birthstone for October? What is the meaning of the birthstone Tourmaline? What are the uses of this gemstone? What is its history? Tourmaline is a gemstone that sets a record for having the most number and variety of colors. According to an old Egyptian story, this birthstone for October had a colorful experience before landing on earth. The Egyptians believed that Tourmaline was a gift from the gods. Before they came to earth, they passed through a stunning rainbow, giving it various bright colors. If you look at tourmaline gems clearly, you will see that they take all the rainbow colors. Up until now, this gemstone is referred to as "the gemstone of the rainbow." Such a pretty name and title for an equally stunning October birthstone, right?

The name tourmaline originated from the Singhalese word "tura mali," which directly means "a gemstone with a variety of colors," referring to the vast color scheme that this gemstone holds. Although considered a semi-precious stone, the Tourmaline beats all other gems regarding the variety of colors. Tourmalines are available in various colors, from red to blue to green. Some types of these gemstones are precious, holding two colors for one stone. This stone is beautiful, especially when light hits them or the light is changed from natural to artificial. The rays hitting the stone produce a cat's eye effect. Interestingly, no two tourmalines are the same.

Because of the large number of its variety, there is a unique stone for every season and every mood. Tourmaline was instituted as an official October birthstone by the Jewelry Industry Council of America in 1952. Traditionally, though, it has always been the one tagged to October. However, when it was designated as one, the official stone considered the birthstone was the pink Tourmaline. But as time went by, Tourmaline became a universal birthstone, meaning all colors of this gem are now associated with October. It is believed that Tourmaline inspires creativity in a particular person, that why this is a favorite gemstone of creative professionals like writers and artists until now.

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Tourmaline has been treated with utmost respect and value not only for its many different spiritual meanings but also for its aesthetic uses. 15th Century Chinese designs on their engravings feature the tourmaline stone, evidence that the gemstone is very durable. Some of these are available in Chinese museums. Aside from their aesthetic use, Tourmalines also play a significant role in many aspects. It is the stone writers, artists, and performers used to awaken their creativity. Some people use the said stone to heal sicknesses, especially in children. The people of Africa use this to free someone from delusions. Some Indian practices use colorful gemstones to awaken someone's mind and develop good insights. Tourmalines also serve as talismans to ancient civilizations, pointing out that the stone helps people navigate dangers that come with confusion. Many believe this October birthstone is somewhat connected to the Philosopher's stone.

An alternative birthstone for October is opal. This stone is much more popular than the pink Tourmaline, but what is the opal stone? What is so special about it? What are its meaning and uses? Find out more here. Opal is a white gem that got its word from the Sanskrit term "upala," which means "a precious stone." It also got a Greek equivalent in the "Opallios," telling "to see a change in its color." It is the gemstone usually given on the 14th anniversary of a married couple. It's precious iridescent, pure white color makes it a perfect romantic gift. The Romans would very much agree with this, considering that they look at this gem as a symbol of hope, union, and romantic love.

During this time, people were all for the opal gemstone, as evidenced by one Roman writer's statement about the beauty of the opal gemstone. His write-up indicated that the stone holds a kaleidoscope of colors. These are colors such as that red rubies, blue sapphires, purple amethyst, and emeralds green. In ancient times, many cultures view opal as a source of mystical power and supernatural benefits. People from the Arabian countries believe that opal is a gift from above, and the Arabic legend states it fell from the sky after lightning struck the earth. As for the Greeks, they believed that opals provided the one who owned them the gift of discernment, the ability to prophesy, and protection from harmful diseases. The opal gem is a precious stone for Europeans, and they believed that this beautiful birthstone for October symbolizes peace, unity, and hope.

An enchanting characteristic of the opal is its ability to bring out the truth about someone. In the metaphysical field, they believe it's always good to have an opal stone ready during examinations. These people think that just as an opal catches the light, the stone can also see a person's deepest longing, desires, aspirations, and feelings hidden deep within his heart. Opal is a perfect stone to give someone overcoming loss as it brings out and helps heal hurt feelings and negative emotions.

However, like other gemstones, opal also has a bad reputation. Through the years, it was a widespread belief that opals carry with them bad luck. People have pointed out that people born in October are doomed to misfortunes because they have an evil gem for a birthstone. Fortunately, all of these rumors are not true. This was only started when an author wrote Anne of Feuerstein, which depicted the opal stone as one from a demoness. The story greatly affected the opal market during the 19th century. Fortunately, everything has changed; opal is one of the most sought-after gem pieces.

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You must get your hands on tourmaline jewelry if you love gemstone pieces. If we can describe in two words this gemstone, it would be beautiful and enchanting. Yes, this gem is unlike the rest, and it features gorgeous colors that magically react to light. Tourmaline necklaces are a must-have, especially ones draped in many colors. For something new, you can invest in a gorgeous tourmaline ring. You can never go wrong with tourmaline pieces if you want an excellent alternative to Swarovski stones. Just get them, and you'll never regret it!

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Gone are the days when opals were a big no-no for jewelry shopping. The bad luck surrounding the beautiful stone has been dispersed. Today, it is one of the most mesmerizing gems in jewelry because of its beautiful iridescent qualities. One of the most famous opal jewelry pieces is the opal pendants. This accessory is incredibly popular with bohemian-style lovers. Unconventional love birds also prefer opal engagement rings to symbolize their promise of love and devotion. Opal rings are also a top bet regarding the stacked rings trend!

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Are there other birthstones aside from opal and Tourmaline for October? Although not very popular, other stones out there are considered by many calendars and timetables as official birthstones for October. The gemstones considered alternative birthstones for October are aquamarine, beryl, jasper, and coral. If you fancy any of them than the two official birthstones, there's no problem with that. All of them are beautiful!

Being born in October with two official birthstones and four more alternative gemstones prove how lucky you are. With these gemstone jewelry pieces, you can wear your fashion and invite luck into your life. Don't forget to share some gemstone goodness with a friend born in October. If you are searching for excellent quality gemstone jewelry without the sky-high price, check out our collection at IceCarats.com.