October is not the only month that offers a choice in birthstones, but the competition for the favorite is keen. This month's selection offers two of the most romantic gems available from the earth. It is somewhat suggestive of the fire and ice analogy as we compare them. The fiery opal offers a continuum of flash and color without equal, while the blushing tourmaline could well represent pink at its most captivating. Though both gems are official birthstones for the autumnal month, each makes a case as to which reigns supreme. You decide!
*********************************************************
Tourmaline as created in nature literally does come in a rainbow of colors (over 100 hues), while pink remains the signature color for October's birthstone. The color pink is most often identified with the feminine gender and incidentally, the ribbon color for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Tourmaline's pink is defined somewhere on the spectrum from baby pink to hot pink and a myriad of shades in between.
Famous women in history have often been identified with a particular gemstone, whether in fact or legend. The last empress of China, for example, made pink tourmaline a gem that takes its place in history. She imported nearly a ton of the pink jewels from Southern California in the early 20th century creating the San Diego gem rush.
Famous women in history have often been identified with a particular gemstone, whether in fact or legend. The last empress of China, for example, made pink tourmaline a gem that takes its place in history. She imported nearly a ton of the pink jewels from Southern California in the early 20th century creating the San Diego gem rush.
***********************************************************
Tourmaline was introduced to the West by Dutch traders during their 15th century exploits; while the earliest recorded finds of opals date back to 4000 B.C. in Ethiopia. Later discoveries occurred in Australia during the 1800's. October's other birthstone beauty captures the essence of lightning and the Aurora Borealis all wrapped up in a stone. One might suggest it is a little temperamental with its disdain for being too hot or too dry. It is true, one must take care when wearing the somewhat delicate gem, but according to opal lovers, "the having and the wearing" is worth it.
The most recognizable names of opal include black, white, and boulder.
Black opal is identified by a dark body causing spectacular color brightness unsurpassed by lighter opals.
The most recognizable names of opal include black, white, and boulder.
Black opal is identified by a dark body causing spectacular color brightness unsurpassed by lighter opals.
White opal, also known as "milky opal", features a light white body tone and is mined in South Australia. White opals are a more common variety, but often may not have brilliant color contrast because of their light body tone.
Boulder opal forms on ironstone boulders in Queensland. When the ironstone is left on the back of the opal, it displays dramatic coloration.
Boulder opal forms on ironstone boulders in Queensland. When the ironstone is left on the back of the opal, it displays dramatic coloration.
As mentioned with the tourmaline, opals too have their association with prominent figures of the past. Mark Anthony, a favored suitor of Cleopatra, was known to have had a fascination with opals. It is said that the Egyptian queen wore opals in an effort to beguile the great Roman conqueror. A queen of a different century was Great Britain's famed Victoria. Her love of opals did much to dispel age-old superstitions that opals brought pestilence, famine, and bad luck to those who possessed them. Fact or legend, the attraction remains, so check out the care tips to maintain their longevity.
***********************************************************
Care Tips
*Tourmaline is rated 7.5 on Mohs scale
*Tourmaline is rated 7.5 on Mohs scale
*Clean with soapy water and soft toothbrush
*Opals are rated 5.5-6 on Mohs scale
*Avoid chemicals, steam, extreme temperatures, and ultrasonic cleaner
*Avoid exposure to heat or dry environment for extended periods of time as the stone may crack or fade
*Avoid exposure to heat or dry environment for extended periods of time as the stone may crack or fade
Whether your October choice is tourmaline or opal, be assured that the legend you wear becomes you!
