Each birth month corresponds to different gemstones. Those lucky enough to be born in October can claim the enchanting opal as their birthstone. Opal is famous for its play of colors that dance across its surface, creating stunning optical effects. The October birthstone is commonly used in necklaces, rings, bracelets, earrings, and more.
SHOP OCTOBER BIRTHSTONE JEWELRY
A Galaxy in a Stone
Opal was revered by many cultures in the ancient world, each attributing unique meanings to it. In Arabic legend, opals descended from the sky in the form of lightning, while the Greeks believed they could prevent disease and bestow the gift of prophecy. The opal's ever-changing rainbow colors have inspired writers to compare it to volcanoes, fireworks, and galaxies.
History of Opal as a Birthstone
When people first started wearing birth month gems in the 16th century, opal was selected as the original October birthstone. In 1912, the American National Retail Jewelers Association also chose opal as the modern birthstone for October.
Historically, opals have been venerated in many cultures. They are symbols of luck, love, and even the fluctuating emotions of an individual. This October birthstone is typically found in Australia, Mexico, Ethiopia, Brazil, and the United States.
Colors of October Birthstone
Opal gems exhibit incredible colors and a unique luminosity. The October birthstone shines with a soft or semi-translucent base color, dotted with vibrant flashes of color. This phenomenon, known as play-of-color, makes each piece of opal jewelry unique.
Meaning of October Birthstone
Each birthstone has its meanings and symbolism. Opal is associated with love, hope, faith, loyalty, purity, and truth. This gem is thought to reflect the wearer's mood with its rainbow-like colors, helping to release inhibition and enhance beauty. Some believe opal symbolizes the virtues of all colored gems, making it one of the luckiest stones to wear.
Opal's Connection to October
Many zodiac stones are connected to their zodiac signs. While opal doesn't have a direct link to the zodiac signs of those born in October, it does represent some of their traits. Libra, the first zodiac sign of October, is known for its ability to adapt to any situation. The social versatility of Libra is well reflected in opal's color play. The passionate Scorpio's energy is captured in the sparkling flecks of color within many October birthstones.
Lucky Birthstone
Ancient Romans considered opal a stone of good luck. As October's gem, opal is particularly fortuitous, believed to bring good fortune to those born in this month.
Gift Ideas for October Birthstone
Celebrate your partner, family, or close friends with a piece of opal jewelry to express your gratitude. Our curated opal birthstone gifts offer various options for different occasions.
A Captivating Declaration of Love
A beautiful opal engagement ring is a striking modern statement, symbolizing your love and loyalty. Diamond accents or a full diamond halo enhance the opal's fire, while a platinum band complements its kaleidoscopic colors.
Lavishly Gift Someone You Cherish
If someone special has an October birthday coming up, a stunning opal necklace showcasing their birthstone is a surefire choice. Our selected opal pendants display the gem's colorful brilliance, whether in solitaire settings or with small diamond accents.
Gift for Mom
A pair of elegant opal earrings is the perfect gift for mom's birthday or Mother's Day. The October birthstone is ideal for timeless style, easily matching all her favorite outfits.
Marking Special Occasions
Significant milestones like graduations, weddings, major promotions, and the birth of children deserve a gift to commemorate these events. An opal necklace or pair of opal earrings is an excellent choice for celebrating life's big moments.
October Birthstone Buying Tips
When buying the colorful October birthstone, make sure to purchase from a trusted jeweler to ensure you find high-quality gems. There are several types of opals, each bringing a unique variation to this stone's signature color play. Here are some tips to consider when buying October birthstone jewelry:
- Choose the color that best fits your budget. Rarer October gem colors (like black opal) will be more expensive than common varieties of this birthstone.
- Maximize your budget with mixed gemstones. If a large opal is beyond your budget, consider adding other gems, like white sapphire. This can create a vibrant piece while adding extra shine within your budget.
- Select a setting that enhances the opal. October's gem might be more fragile than other birthstones, so choose a setting type best suited to protect the stone. This might include bezel settings or halos of other gems to encase the opal.
Purchasing enhanced October birthstones is a great way to enjoy durable and vibrant gems. Enhancements can include colorless hardeners to improve durability and color. More translucent October opals might also receive backing to enhance rigidity.